Sauk Rapids Herald - August 5, 2023

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Sartell man faces vehicular homicide charges after fatal crash

Over 50 years on the streets of Sauk Rapids

BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER

Protect. Serve. Two words not taken lightly by law enforcement.

FOLEY – A Sartell man has been charged with vehicular homicide and driving while impaired after a crash took the life of a Sauk Rapids man July 28.

Tyler Jordan Nies, 25, faces 10 years in prison and a $20,000 ne for causing the death of another as a result of operating a vehicle while having a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or more.

The Sauk Rapids Police Department was dispatched to a vehicle-pedestrian crash shortly before 11 p.m. July 28 at the intersection of North Benton Drive and Eighth Street North.

Kevin Donald Oehmen, 47, of Sauk Rapids, had been hit by a vehicle, and law enforcement administered CPR before Oehmen was transported to the St. Cloud Hospital, where he later died.

According to a criminal complaint led in Benton County, Nies said he was driving northbound in the right lane of North Benton Drive when he observed a man, later identi ed as Oehmen, walking in the grass near the curb.

Nies page 3

Sergeant Dan Falk and Patrol Of cer Dave Rosenkrans wore the words on their sleeves and within their hearts for more than a combined 50 years as members of the Sauk Rapids Police Department.

Falk, Rosenkrans retire from police department

Rosenkrans and Falk retired from policing May 31 and June 30, respectively.

The two leave behind 16 sworn of cers and two administrative staff at the SRPD.

“The citizens of Sauk Rapids should be very proud and happy about the people they have working in the police department,” Rosenkrans said. “They are a dedicated group doing a very dif cult job, and they continue to do it day after day. You don’t nd that all the time.”

Benton County Fair vendors share culinary camaraderie

5 food booths have 35-plus year connection via corner location

BY TIM HENNAGIR STAFF WRITER

A tight-knit group of Benton County Fair food vendors share a historic ingredient.

Bobby Joe’s Beef Burgers, Jimmy Z’s Little Italy & More, Prom’s Cheese Curds & Wontons, Donutman Joe’s Mini-Donuts and Kelch Concessions’ Taco in a Bag have been neighbors on the same fair corner in Sauk Rapids for more than 35 years.

Vendors page 3

Police retirement page 5

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Dan Falk (left) and Dave Rosenkrans stand with service plaques June 12 after being recognized by the city council for their years as employees of the Sauk Rapids Police Department. Combined, the two served the city for over 50 years.

Same Local Coverage Since 1854.

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

Tyler Jordan Nies

PHOTO BY TIM HENNAGIR

Kelch Concessions’ Taco in a Bag (from left), Jimmy Z’s Little Italy & More, Prom’s Cheese Curds & Wontons, Donutman Joe’s Mini-Donuts and Bobby Joe’s Beef Burgers are food booth neighbors on the same corner within the Benton County Fairgrounds in Sauk Rapids. Families and owners of the five booths have been friends and have shared fairrelated experiences for more than 35 years.

Kevin D. Oehmen

School building projects continue

Multipurpose facility at SRRMS expected to open in January

BY TOM FENTON | STAFF WRITER

As the 2023-24 school year approaches, construction on several district building projects continue.

That means it has been a busy summer for Brad Berghuis, director of buildings and grounds for the Sauk Rapids-Rice School District.

The major project has been converting the Sauk Rapids-Rice Middle School pool, which had been sitting idle since 2007, into a multipurpose space that will be used by the students and community members. Berghuis said the three-phase project, which is currently in phase one, is expected to be complete by the end of January 2024.

Berghuis said transforming the middle school pool into a multipurpose facility that will include three pickleball courts has been an interesting and fun project. Construction is being done by Sauk Rapids-based BCI Inc.

“It’s a very exciting project, and I’m very ex-

cited for the community to also be able to use this space,” Berghuis said. “That was one thing we heard during 2019 when we were going out for the bond for the new Pleasantview Elementary (School). The community wanted us to use the space we had. It’s between 5,000-6,000 square feet that will be put back into use for the students and the community.”

Tracey Fiereck, director of business services in the district, said the estimated combined cost of the multipurpose space is $2.88 million and is being paid for with federal funds.

The rst phase of the project involved transforming a choir room into a tness room because it will be joined with the multipurpose space. The choir room was moved to what previously was a band room. Pouring the slab, installing drywall, and the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system is underway with painting and oor instal-

lation set to begin next week. Phase two of the project involves lling in the old pool with a concrete ller then putting the ooring on top. The design calls for three pickleball courts to be installed over the old pool. Berghuis said this phase should be completed during the winter break.

“The old pool was designed for 167,000 gallons of water, so we’re lling that up and then we’ll be able to pour the nished oor on it and in the tness center at the same time,” Berghuis said. “The nal phase of the project involves moving equipment from the current tness center into the new space and converting that into storage. We’ll have a lot less storage, but that makes the districts purge stuff they haven’t used over the years.”

Other projects –which Berghuis said are

expected to be completed by the start of classes Sept. 5 – included new brick work and exterior door replacement at Door 5 of the middle school along with a new section of roofing on the east side of the building.

At SRRHS, a newly paved section of the parking lot on the west side of the building is nished,

and a new boiler at Rice Elementary School also is nearing completion. The boiler cost $1.1 million and is funded through the district’s longterm facility maintenance program. The middle school brick project cost $558,000 and the roof $307,000. Those two projects were funded through operating capital.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF RYAN BUTKOWSKI/SAUK RAPIDS-RICE SCHOOL BOARD

Construction July 26 continues on transforming the unused pool at Sauk Rapids-Rice Middle School in Sauk Rapids into a multi-purpose facility that will be available for students and the community. The project is slated for a January 2024 completion.

Demolition is nearly complete July 26 on what used to be the pool at Sauk RapidsRice Middle School in Sauk Rapids. The new multi-purpose facility will include three pickleball courts that will also be available to community members.

Vendors from front

The unique relationship involving shared physical space has evolved over time.

Folding booths have been replaced by fully-equipped trailers serving thousands of fair patrons tasty fried and grilled fare during the rst week in August.

Jimmy Zanardi has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to serving as the culinary quintet’s historian.

“We have a great little community,” Zanardi said. “We all have each other’s backs.”

Zanardi began with a stick stand that he bought from Bob Prom, who is Sid Prom’s cousin.

“I started out with four sandwiches, and a little grill and deep fryer,” he said.

Years ago, nobody wanted the spot the group shares because it was gravel.

Zanardi contends there is another reason why spaces near the beer garden were not popular.

“When we rst started out, nobody wanted the spots we’re in because Sauk Rapids really wasn’t a beer drinking town,” he said. “That changed when the Killer Hayseeds band started playing the fair.”

During a recent confab, Zanardi and Tom Eveslage, who operates Bobby Joe’s, recalled how Tom’s father, Robert, started selling fair burgers nearly 50 years ago.

“He started with a charcoal grill and a plywood shack,” Eveslage said. “Dad was the original. The booth used to be called Chubby Joe’s but the name was changed.”

Eveslage grew up a short distance from the fairgrounds on Second Avenue South. His father was a bar, food service and catering legend in

central Minnesota. A friendly wager landed Robert at the fair.

“A bunch of his friends made a bet with him years ago he could not make a go of it selling hamburgers at the Benton County Fair,” Eveslage said.

He and his wife, Sam, took over the booth from Joe and Pam Poganski who ran Bobby Joe’s when the Eveslages were in Alaska. Robert is retired and lives in Arizona.

Joe Notch has the food trailer next to Bobby Joe’s. Better known as Donutman Joe, Notch’s previously claim to fair fame exclusively involved selling doughnut holes.

That all changed when fellow fair vendor Robert Di Gregorio died in 2021.

“I did that for 30 years,” Notch said. “The only reason I got into doughnuts is because Robert died the month before the fair. He took over from his mother, Cecilia J. de

Nies from front

Oehmen then entered the roadway as if to cross the road, and Nies slammed the brakes but could not stop, he told police.

A witness driving behind Nies corroborated the account but said they did not see Oehmen until the crash occurred.

Nies admitted to police that he had been drinking prior to the incident, the complaint said.

Court documents show Nies had a BAC of .129 after a preliminary breath test and that the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension is awaiting blood sample results.

Nies was placed under arrest and booked at the Benton County Jail. He was released on bond and is due in court for a hearing Tuesday, Aug. 8.

Gregory. I remember coming to the fair as a 4-Her and buying mini-doughnuts from her.”

Notch joked he used to see doughnuts in his sleep. He does not anymore; he is too busy.

“Saturday is one of the busiest days we have at the fair,” Notch said. “It’s a really special time of year, but really tiring by the time we’re done on Sunday.”

Doughnut holes were good to sell, but the Benton County Agricultural Society only allows one other mini-doughnut stand other than what is on the Midway, Notch said.

Shannon Kelch began working at the Benton County Fair while in high school.

“My rst year down here was in 1994,” she said. “My husband, Josh, and I bought this location from Roger and Ginger Englund. We did that 21 years ago. I worked with them and when they were ready to retire, they sold it.”

Kelch said the owners of the ve booths have watched each other’s families and kids grow up.

The willingness to help each other through county fair thick and thin has created a strong bond over time, she said.

“If the Proms have extra curds, they share them,” she said.

Vendors page 4

Monday, Aug. 7, 6 p.m. – Sauk Rapids-Rice School Board Meeting. Sauk Rapids-Rice High School, 1835 Osauka Road NE, Sauk Rapids.

Monday, Aug. 7, 6 p.m. – Rice City Council Meeting. Rice City Hall, 205 E. Main St., Rice.

Monday, Aug. 7, 6-7 p.m. – Nordic Walking Group. Meets every Monday. Some poles available. Municipal Park, Sauk Rapids.

Tuesday, Aug. 8, 10 a.m. to noon – Living Waters Lutheran Church Food Shelf Distribution. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids. If in need of emergency food assistance, call 320-255-1135.

Tuesday, Aug. 8, 12:15 p.m. – Rice Senior Citizens Monthly Meetings. First Tuesday of the Month. Old Creamery Café, 405 E. Main St., Rice.

Tuesday, Aug. 8, 12:30-1:30 p.m. – Exercise Tuesdays. Hosted by Helping Hands Outreach. Lions Building, 101 Fourth Ave. NW, Rice. Call 320-3934467 for more information.

Tuesday, Aug. 8, 3-6 p.m. – Rice Area Women of Today Farmers Market. Free arts and craft activity for children. Veterans Memorial Park parking lot at the corner of Main and Division streets, Rice.

Tuesday, Aug. 8, 5-6:30 p.m. – Watab Township Ice Cream Social. Ice cream, yard games, kids activities, elected of cials and emergency services personnel. Hosted by supervisors as part of National Night Out. Watab Town Hall, 660 75th St. NW, Sauk Rapids.

Tuesday, Aug. 8, 6:30 p.m. – Sauk Rapids Lions Membership Meeting. Second Tuesday of every month. Sauk Rapids VFW Post 6992, 901 N. Benton Drive, Sauk Rapids.

Tuesday, Aug. 8, 7 p.m. – Watab Township Supervisors Meeting. Watab Town Hall, 660 75th St. NW, Sauk Rapids.

Tuesday, Aug. 8, 7-9 p.m. – St. Cloud Area Singing Saints Men’s Acapella Chorus Practice Meets every Tuesday. New participants welcome. Good Shepherd Community Chapel, 325 11th St. N., Sauk Rapids.

Wednesday, Aug. 9, 1-3 p.m. – Cribbage Wednesdays. Hosted by Helping Hands Outreach. Lions Building, 101 Fourth Ave. NW, Rice.

Thursday, Aug. 10, 3-5:30 p.m. – Rice Area Food Shelf Distribution. Old Village Hall, 30 E. Main St., Rice.

Thursday, Aug. 10, 3-6 p.m. – Sauk Rapids Market. Every Thursday through mid-October. Parking lot at Coborn’s, 110 First St. S., Sauk Rapids.

Thursday, Aug. 10, 5:30 p.m. – Riverside Nights Featuring opening act Jon Theis and headliner Legacy of the Loud. 1851 Square and Riverside Terrace, 195 River Ave. S., Sauk Rapids.

Thursday, Aug. 10, 6-7:30 p.m. – Police Activities League. For children age 5-15. Sponsored by the Rice and Foley police departments and Benton County Sheriff’s Of ce. Athletic events and arts and crafts. West Side Park, 101 Fourth Ave. NW, Rice.

Thursday, Aug. 10, 7 p.m. – Sauk Rapids Legion Post 254 Monthly Meeting. Legion meets the second Thursday of each month at the Sauk Rapids VFW Post 6992, 901 N. Benton Drive, Sauk Rapids.

Thursday, Aug. 10, 7 p.m. – Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting. Meets weekly. Shepherd of the Pines Lutheran Church, 1950 125th St. NW, Rice. For more information, call 320-293-9213.

Saturday, Aug. 12, 10:30 a.m. – Little Rock Lake Association Annual Picnic. New members welcome. Meeting begins at 10:30 with meal to start around noon. Lakeview Center at Benton Beach Campground, 130 125th St. NW, Rice.

PHOTO BY TIM HENNAGIR

Tom Eveslage takes a quick break from grilling a batch of quarter-pound burgers at the Bobby Joe’s stand Aug. 1, the first day of the 2023 Benton County Fair in Sauk Rapids. Friday and Saturday are his busiest days.

Huge rummage sale, bake sale, bean bag tourney, Bingo, craft fair, chili cookoff, petting zoo and much more!

Police retirement from front

Falk served the entirety of his law enforcement career with the Sauk Rapids department. He was hired in 1995 after completing his degree in criminal justice and rst working in safety and security at hospitals in Ramsey and St. Cloud.

A native of Braham, Falk said Sauk Rapids was an attractive city because of its size.

“I wanted to work in a smaller town, a town I was able to grow with, and that has certainly happened here,” he said. “There has been a lot of change here, and it’s nice to see that change and be able to adapt with it.”

Falk worked as SRPD’s sole detective sergeant – investigating crimes in plain clothes and an unmarked squad car – for the majority of his career.

He investigated seven homicides and countless abuse, assault, burglary and robbery cases over his 20 years in the role. He conducted interviews, collected evidence, pieced together details and looked for answers. He was in touch with families from the initial investigations through court proceedings and, in some situations, beyond.

police of cers, Rosenkrans said he – like many others –has never red his sidearm while on a call for service.

“I, thank God, have never had to re my weapon” Rosenkrans said. “In my 32 years of law enforcement, I would have been justi ed to use deadly force four different times that I can remember. Why I didn’t was (because) I was able to talk my way out of those situations. I’ve been lucky throughout my career that my mouth has gotten me out of a lot of hairy situations.”

Sgt .Dan Fal k

Over the course of their careers, Falk and Rosenkrans have seen changes in technology including the introduction of body cameras as well as the uptick of mental health calls and the strength of illegal drugs.

One change Rosenkrans has been happy to see and said would help newer of cers “if they use it” is the availability of mental health resources for law enforcement. He said good things happen in the eld, but police of cers are exposed to dark moments and processing them can take time.

OfficerDave Rosenkrans

“The city paid me, but I worked for the victim,” said Falk, who added his love for people and puzzles drew him to the profession. “You certainly get invested in families because you’re there from the get-go.”

Falk, with a mindset of giving all or nothing, also was responsible for the evidence room and some of the department’s information technology needs. He served as the department’s interim police chief between Curt Gullickson and current Sauk Rapids Police Chief Perry Beise.

Falk and Rosenkrans worked as partners on patrol for nearly the last three years of their careers when Ofcer Montana Hanson transitioned to investigations.

“We worked very well together because we were of the same generation,” Rosenkrans said. “I started a little bit before he did, but it was close enough to where we’ve seen the progression of how law enforcement has changed in the last 25 or 30 years. He and I were on the same page as far as how we were going to handle calls and what we were going to do.”

Rosenkrans – known as “Rosey” to community members – got his start in law enforcement in his hometown as a member of the Roseau County Sheriff’s Of ce in 1991. He quickly was acquainted with the role during his rst shift as the sole deputy on duty from midnight to 8 a.m.

“That rst night, I was in the of ce 10 minutes to midnight,” said Rosenkrans, who added there was no eld training program at the time. “Three minutes later, I get dispatched for a two-vehicle accident north of Greenbush, which is about 27 minutes away.”

Rosenkrans sprang into action – sink or swim – as he responded to the call which was followed by evacuating three mobile home parks after being informed of a tornado touchdown in the area. The calls for service were the rst of many Rosenkrans would answer over his 32-year career.

Rosenkrans also worked as a deputy in Wilkin County and then as a police of cer in Moorhead during what he calls the “gang-era” of the 1990s before landing a job in Sauk Rapids – a smaller city and closer in proximity to his sister’s home.

“I was ready for a change,” he said. “Coming to Sauk Rapids was a great move for me.”

With nearly a decade of police work under his belt when he arrived in Sauk Rapids, Rosenkrans adapted to the smaller department and smaller city.

“My policing style was a little bit different than the other of cers who were here because I came from a bigger city, and my style was a little bit more aggressive than what they were used to,” he said.

Eventually, Rosenkrans became SRPD’s eld training of cer and was responsible for training the department in defensive tactics, use of force, rearms and Tasers.

He has been sent to the hospital emergency room ve times over his career and was shot at once early on while working as a deputy.

Although drawing a weapon is quite common for

“I’ve done lifesaving CPR 35 times in my career, and I’ve only got one save,” said Rosenkrans, who added that number included ve infants. “It’s things like that that will stick with me for the rest of my life.”

Falk agreed that some cases are hard to shake.

“Little kids stick with you,” he said. “They hit home with everyone because things aren’t supposed to happen to kids.”

Both Falk and Rosenkrans agreed their last years as of cers were some of the most dif cult and frightening as societal norms shifted around law enforcement; patrolling the streets of Sauk Rapids changed.

“The toughest part I saw was the de ance of citizens when we’re trying to do our job,” said Rosenkrans, who added that although the police department serves the entire community, they regularly only come into contact with a small percentage of the area’s citizens.

Rosenkrans said despite having probable cause to arrest a subject, people now argue their arrest and want to try their case on the street rather than in the courtroom.

Falk agreed.

“Authority has no meaning to people anymore,” he said. “People just decide they can do it. We elect people to make rules, and now the public is just deciding the rules don’t apply to them. All I am is a facts gatherer, and the facts I gather tell me you broke the law. After that, it’s up to a judge. That’s our criminal process in the United States.”

The shift made their jobs as peace keepers more dif cult and played a role in the of cers retiring at age 54 rather than working longer and risking the unknown, they said.

“Bad, unethical cops are few and far between,” Falk said. “It’s no different than other profession. … I’ve worked and saved to care for my family, and in an instant, because of the way society has been, it can all be taken away from me whether I did something right or something wrong.”

Still, Falk and Rosenkrans said it has not been easy leaving their professions or fellow of cers who wore the same uniforms as they did every day.

“You leave a whole other family behind,” Falk said. “As my wife would put it, law enforcement isn’t a career; it’s a lifestyle. … I loved working here. The rst week (of retirement) I was angry and sad all at the same time. I miss it.”

It is not lost on the two retirees that they leave a younger generation to continue their work, and they are con dent the members of SRPD are poised to continue the legacy to protect and serve.

“Our mission statement says we’ll go the extra mile,” Falk said. “We truly do in Sauk Rapids.”

Kevin D. Oehmen

A celebration of life was Aug. 4, 2023, at Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids for Kevin D. Oehmen, age 47, who passed away in Sauk Rapids July 28, 2023. A prayer service and time of sharing was on Friday at the funeral home in Sauk Rapids.

Kevin was born on May 16, 1976, in Princeton to Pete Oehmen and Terry Brander. He graduated from St. Cloud State University with a bachelor’s degree in business management. Kevin has lived in the St. Cloud area since 2001 and has worked the past few years with Marco in customer service. Kevin enjoyed spending time with his family, camping, barbecues, boat rides, gardening, watching the Minnesota Vikings and listening to music. He was a smart and thoughtful man who loved helping others and always cherished the small things in life. Most importantly, he was most proud of his two daughters, Zoey and River.

Kevin is survived by his children, Zoey and River Oehmen both of

Kevin D. Oehmen

Sauk Rapids; mother, Terry (Tony) Pieper of Buffalo; father, Pete (Jeannie Megorden) Oehmen of Brooton; siblings, Jason (Colony) Oehmen of Rockville, Katie (Sean) Christensen of Sartell, Laura Pieper of Minnetonka, and Melanie Pieper of Glencoe; grandmother, Mary Brander of Princeton; mother to Kevins children, Christina Schendzielos of Sauk Rapids; and many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Leo and LaVonne Oehmen; and maternal grandparents, Donald and Verona Brander.

Obituary, guest book and video tribute available online at www.williamsdingmann.com R-31-1B

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Cast iron plant

In recent columns, I have described easyto-grow houseplants. The Sansevieria, or snake plant, and the ZZ plant. A third candidate is the cast iron plant, botanical name Aspidistra elatior. The name refers to its ability to remain alive under negative growing conditions. It has also been called the beer plant because bartenders watered it with the dregs of beer glasses. This plant was popular in Victorian times, originated in southern Japan and is from the asparagus family.

GREEN

GROWING IN BENTON COUNTY

BY LINDA G. TENNESON

The cast iron plant has arching, up to 4-inch-wide green leaves that emerge out of a central core like Sansevieria. It can grow to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It is a good candidate for growing indoors because it prefers low light conditions and survives irregular watering. Indoor temperatures and lower humidity are ne. The cast iron plant grows slowly and requires water only when the soil dries out. It may have small cream and purple owers only when grown outdoors. The blooms are found near the base of the plant, last for only a day and may not be noticed. Note this is a semi-tropical plant that may die if exposed to a temperature of less than 50 degrees. When grown in Florida or other southern states, the plant is used as a ground cover like hosta. Fertilize this plant lightly in spring or summer but not in winter months.

One source stated the plant is so adapted to low light conditions that it will grow in areas with very little sunlight, like under porch stairways, and direct sunlight can burn the leaves. There are several varieties: Variegata with white stripes on the leaves, Asahi with white tips on the leaves, Hoshi-zora with yellow or white speckled dots on the leaves, and Lennon’s Song with light green or yellow stripes.

Like the Sansevieria, the cast iron plant can be propagated by dividing the rhizomes, or the just below the surface root structure. Each section should have two or three leaves emerging from it. Pot the divisions in fresh soil that drains well and keeps them slightly moist. New shoots are a sign that roots have extended from the rhizome division. Repotting or dividing is required when the plant has created so many additional leaves that they have lled the container and/or roots are extending out of the soil. Repot in a container that is only slightly larger. Since the plant grows slowly, repotting is not required every year.

This hardy plant is not affected by many diseases. Mites and scale that attack other plants may be treated with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Brown leaf tips are a sign that the plant has been overwatered or been in strong sunlight. This, like many other houseplants, helps to purify indoor air. It is safe to have around children and pets.

This website from the University of North Carolina has additional details about this plant that is great for beginning or neglectful indoor gardeners. See plants.ces. ncsu.edu/plants/aspidistra-elatior. There are a few online sources of this plant, maybe because it is less popular than it was over a hundred years ago.

Look for Extension Master Gardeners at the Benton County Fair-Heritage Building to view the Color Buffet theme plants and to ask questions.

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

Pet heaven

Two by two they entered the ark as God saved his creation for a new start. Everything still here to point to his glory and for mankind to ll the earth, subdue and have dominion over it.

I can’t even imagine the pets that Noah and his family made their favorites while on the ark.

Pets are companions that can help with growing responsibility and lowering anxiety. Is this true for every person though?

LIFE BY FAITH BY MERCY NYGAARD

Nothing gives me more anxiety than the thought of an animal peeing, pooping or vomiting in the place I call home. The problem is, when we rst found this home, my husband believed this place was a potential pet heaven. I do not dislike animals; I just, after taking care of six babies, don’t have as big of capacity for clean up as most animal lovers. And, we mess up the house enough as it is. But there’s even more than excrement that keeps me wanting our home animal free. I lost my love for cats in the home when I learned about the toxoplasmosis parasite that hangs out in cat poop. Pawing at their litter and then crawling on the counters makes me nauseous.

Also spotting. We had an inside dog within a month of moving into this house that my husband brought home from the humane society. Too many people were turning around in our driveway, so he thought we needed a guard dog. The humane society spayed and neuters animals, and this female dog was supposedly spayed. But the red spot on my new couch said otherwise. No more dogs in the house I proclaimed.

My husband is an animal lover. We have hairy, highland cattle as pets, goats, chickens, an Australian shepherd and a large tank of cichlid sh. When our son asked for a snake and our daughter asked for a leopard gecko, he was ecstatic and found everything they needed for cages and whatnot. At least they are in a cage, I tell myself.

But the other day, on an errand, our youngest daughter wanted to get a guinea pig. As he was looking

into it, he couldn’t resist the fury, round critters with short, little legs. So, they went to the humane society and found three. It was, “Take all or none.”

This has been a big learning experience. Even the lady at the humane society informed both our daughter and her dad that they receive guinea pigs often because they are hard to keep up with. They eat a lot and poop a lot. They need their bedding replaced often, and they need a variety of food. Still, my husband looked at the three uff balls and said to our intensely, dyslexic daughter, “You can do it.” She emphatically squealed, “Yes, I will!” “But she can’t even keep her own room clean,” I warned. “She will if she wants to keep them,” my lovingly, optimistic and hopeless, zookeeper-dreamer spouse replied.

It didn’t take long before her bedroom inevitably became a disaster again and the guinea pigs’ bedroom looked like a replica of hers. Over and over, we have had to deep clean her room and deep clean the guinea pigs’ cage, and who knew they shed like crazy. Every other day, she has to do it or the piles of poop turn into little mountains. They’re hungry all the time, and it’s just too much to keep up with. She’s learning to be responsible for something and also to research and weigh out decisions before pulling the trigger so fast.

Pets are truly wonderful and a blessing from God’s creation. They may not be for everybody or for every season in life. I raise humans, not animals, but my family insists on keeping them around.

In a recent family discussion of ours, someone asked if pets go to heaven, and the kids’ papa replied, “There’s no where in the Bible that says they don’t.” I loved that answer. I’m all about keeping the wonder of God’s creation in our hearts, and I’m also all about keeping my house clean. My husband and kids can keep imagining pet heaven whenever they want to, and I’ll keep reminding them to clean the cages.

AND

A previous column touched on my dismay with the current state of Tinseltown.

I wrapped up a July 22 offering with a promise to provide a summer movie update.

Atomic bomb biopic had important 1980s predecessor July weather, phenology in review

Last weekend, I spent three consecutive nights as a theatergoer. I took the hardcore approach. No giant tubs of popcorn, super-sized soft drinks or boxes of gooey candy.

I used late night viewing to see “Oppenheimer,” “Barbie” and “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One.” Here’s the promised movie update and a history lesson.

FROM THE DOGHOUSE

BY TIM HENNAGIR

Oppenheimer changed world history by shepherding the development of the rst atomic bomb. His biopic will remain a blockbuster, dramatic and full of suspense.

I’m going to toss Tom Cruise’s stunt- lled thriller about a threat posed by rogue arti cial intelligence and a celluloid fantasy about a toy doll’s adventures aside.

Rest assured both movies were highly entertaining.

“Oppenheimer” provided a sobering reminder of a landmark television broadcast from 40 years ago this fall. “The Day After” rst aired Nov. 20, 1983, on the ABC television network.

More than 100 million people, in nearly 39 million households across the country, watched the lm during its initial broadcast during a cold war period with Russia. The lm was the seventh-highest-rated non-sports show until then, and it set a record as the highest-rated television lm in history, which it held as of 2009.

The lm postulates a ctional war between NATO forces and the Warsaw Pact over Germany that rapidly escalates into a full-scale United States and Soviet nuclear exchange

The action itself focuses on the residents of Lawrence, Kansas; Kansas City, Missouri; and several family farms near American nuclear missile silos.

I’ll never forget watching the movie as a student

in junior college. Most versions of “The Day After” include a textual ending disclaimer just before the end credits. While the ending message clearly states the lm is ctional, the real-life outcome of a nuclear war would be much worse than the events portrayed onscreen.

President Ronald Reagan watched the lm more than a month before its screening on Columbus Day, Oct. 10, 1983. He wrote in his diary that the lm, which contains graphic images of destruction, changed his mind on the nation’s prevailing policy regarding a nuclear war. Such a war would not have a winner. It would use highly advanced and much more powerful weapons than those depicted in the movie “Oppenheimer.”

As an U.S. Atomic Energy Commission adviser, Oppenheimer advocated against further nuclear research, especially the hydrogen bomb proposed by Edward Teller. His stance became a point of contention amid the tense Cold War with the Soviet Union. Both sides had the capability to develop world-killing weapons.

Politicians took control of nuclear policy and proliferation, and the arms race left the starting line in earnest.

Let’s hope the nuclear dash started by Oppenheimer and other Manhattan Project scientists doesn’t return to the starting blocks with an equally dangerous weapon. Arti cial intelligence represents a similar threat to technology-dependent humans. Letting that genie out of the technological bottle is just as terrifying as any movie or television scenario. Let’s hope there isn’t a “The Day After” involving a higher form.

If your imagination needs stimulation, head to the theater next month for the premier of “The Creator,” a coming attraction science ction action thriller.

Its premise? An ex-special forces agent hunts down the architect of advanced arti cial intelligence and a weapon with the power to end a war and mankind itself.

The most wonderful time of the year

It’s the Tuesday before the rst weekend in August, my favorite day of the year. Taking the day off work is mandatory, even when the best part of my day is over by lunchtime. Not that I will need lunch.

Tuesday is the rst full day of the Benton County Fair. It is also the day I ful ll my beloved role as an open class baking judge, just as I’ve done for the last 17 years or so. I can’t recall exactly how many years, but I know it predates Facebook memories.

While I love many things about the fair, it is at its best to me that morning. I (usually) always park in the same spot behind the livestock buildings, arriving around 8 a.m., just in time to see the kids washing their cows. The unbridled joy this brings me is quizzical. I’ve never owned a cow or been a farm kid, so it’s not nostalgia. But I do love cows. And it is the hope, perhaps, that some things continue on in the onslaught of so much that changes.

And then today something changed, much to my chagrin. The area I park in was full. Full! OK, it’s a huge parking area, but all the spots in my usual area were taken. I drove into the other section and entered in front of the barns, deciding whether or not to be the weird woman who intentionally went in search of cow washing.

And then I saw it. What was happening? A man appeared to be vacuuming a cow. Likely not the actual term, but that’s how I saw it. It was cool to watch. And a lesson that, after 17 years, maybe I can see something different. (I did check; the kids were still washing the cows.)

I spend the next few hours taking bites of delicious baked goodness and enjoying the camaraderie of a dedicated contingent of amazing people who put

the exhibits together and ll the building with blue, red and white ribbons. There are lovely people I am thrilled to see again each year and new faces I am thankful for.

The declining number of baking entries makes my heart sad, but it is warmed when I spot a new name on a tag, only revealed after the judging, of course. Like the cow washing, the tradition of baking for the fair is a sign, to me, that all is not lost just yet. The pies are my favorite, always. I leave full, just a bit queasy and, in spite of that, ready to do it all again next year.

Along with a belly full of baked deliciousness, I receive a modest, and totally unnecessary, stipend. Ever since the rst year, when my son was 5 years old, it’s money we’ve put back into the fair. It was a gift to say yes to any game or treat or ride. No wild rides for me, though. The Scrambler just scrambles the pie in my stomach. One year, there were actual live camel rides. My son took the camel for a spin. I am more of a horse on the carousel kind of gal.

My only ask was that we go into the Open Class Building so I could show off everything I tasted. All these years later, I still treat him to whatever he wants (it’s less now) and exact the same payment in return.

Again, it’s the constants that draw me in. A milkshake from the dairy princesses, a walk through the Sportsmen’s Building, the hope for a record number of baby piglets in the FFA Barnyard, marveling at how different the Sports Arena looks without ice.

The usual, the same and I wouldn’t want it any other way. Well, maybe I will take the occasional change. It may lead to something unexpected, like cow vacuuming.

Weather: Average high and low temperatures were 82.8 and 79.6 degrees. A little warmer than last year. The high temperature was 94 degrees July 26, and the low was a sweatshirt morning with 43 degrees July 11. I recorded four days in a row with 90-degree readings at the end of the month. Lots of humidity and poor air quality from the smoke from Canada Precipitation; where was it? Another dry month. Only seven days with measurable precipitation, the most falling July 14 when I recorded .34 of an-inch in the gauge. Total for the month is 1.47 inches. Last month was 1.54 inches. May was worse at .73 of an inch. Every rain event just seems to go around us. Benton County is in a drought. Total precipitation for the year is 14.13 inches. Last year we had 19.64 inches.

Local weather records: Our mid-summer temperatures dictate hot and muggy weather. The coldest day occurred in 1969 when the mercury dipped to a chilly 40 degrees, while in 1934 it made it to 107 degrees. I cannot remember when it made it to 100 degrees here. The most rain, 12.81 inches, occurred in 1897.

Phenology: Summer birds are abundant. Nuthatch, robin, blue jay, three species of woodpeckers, common and house nches, one orchard oriole, rose-breasted grosbeak, several species of sparrows, red-eyed vireo, wood thrush and the ruby-throated hummingbird names most of them. I had my rst observation of a juvenile green heron on the lawn. Most occupy the birdbath taking a needed drink and occasional bath.

Lake birds deserve mention. I spotted a spotted sandpiper on the shore hunting for food, a belted king sher looking for food from a perch and 33 herring gulls perched on the sand. Late in the month, I saw 15 American white pelicans by Little Rock Creek. The Pelicans are here early.

Birds that have left so far are brown-headed cow bird and gray catbird. Getting ready to leave are common grackle and purple martins. We’ve had the best hatching of purple martins in several years. Lots of them ying around and eating insects, chirping the whole time. They are the happy birds in the sky. We’ll miss them, and the sky will be silent.

A black bear was observed by Duane Cekalla July 2, trying to destroy a bird feeder. Bunnies are feeding on cracked corn, and deer have feasted on our hosta plants. A deer repellent spray seems to have solved the deer problem.

Pollinators include lots of bumblebees on catmint. Monarch, eastern tiger swallowtail, tail blue and, I’m quite sure, a giant swallowtail butter y. First ever this summer were two hummingbird clearwing moths at the monarda. They look just like a hummingbird but are a moth.

Little Rock Lake: Lake levels remained low, uctuating all month. Lots of green algae. However, no blue-green stuff and no terrible smell. The bull rushes by the Soderholm dock are very healthy and just nishing owering. Mark kept the bull rushes fenced in to protect them from the geese. All considered with no rain and water to ush the lake, not too bad.

HUMBLE+BOLD BY RHONDA SILTMAN

FROM THE NORTH SHORE OF LITTLE ROCK LAKE BY JIM HOVDA

Editor’s note:

lead to:

All roads Holdingford New mural

depicts city’s story

BY HERMAN LENSING STAFF WRITER

Jeff Burg, of Holdingford, has been asked many times about the name of his community.

“Even some people who live here don’t know how it got its name,” he said July 19 while watching Zack Jones paint an imaginary scene from Holdingford’s past on the Holdingford Area Historical Society Museum wall. “I explain that, and they say it is really neat.”

The 12-foot by 30foot mural painted on the south wall shows part of the answer. A poster on the wall explains the town is located at a ford of the South Two Rivers. In 1868, Randolph Holding purchased land at the ford and the area became known as Holding’s Ford. Over time, the spelling changed to Holdingford.

Burg, who owns the Holdingford Mill, has a copy of Paul Detlefsen’s “Big Moment,” a horse-drawn wagon crossing a stream, at a mill. Something about the picture reminded Burg of Randolph Holding and inspired the idea of a mural of the river being forded.

“About a year ago I was thinking how can we teach that (story of the town’s name), so it doesn’t get forgotten,” said Burg, a history buff.

“I thought what a perfect way: show fording by the river. I presented it to the historical board,

and they jumped on it wholeheartedly.”

Burg and others contacted artists on the concept, and Jones, of Malvern, Iowa, stood out. He was familiar with Holdingford. He has converted a former Presbyterian church into

Art Church, a residence, studio and Airbnb. Ten years earlier, Jones met Holdingford resident Greg Konsor when Konsor visited Art Church.

“Greg saw it, and a couple of years later I came here to paint a mural at Art in Motion,” Jones said.

When Burg visited Art Church, there was no doubt Jones should paint the mural. A discussion with Jones solidi ed his idea.

felt it took somebody with vision to express what we were thinking. Zack insisted on tying in local things.”

The painting shows a man and young boy in a horse-drawn wagon crossing the ford. Cattle, the Holdingford Mill and other elements from century-old photos appear in the painting.

Jones’ vision of what the painting should re ect captured what the historical board wanted.

“One of the things the museum wanted was a project the whole community could get behind,” Burg said.

A fund drive raised the $18,000 needed to cover the project. Seeing the mural under construction has generated additional donations –and community pride.

“It’s all local money,” Burg said. “Some donated supplies and labor. Some donate anonymously. They can drive by or down main street, and say I helped do that.”

Some people stop to look at the mural.

More than one person asked about the work being done and what kind of paint is being used.

“That’s been a popular question,” said Jones, who takes time from his painting to answer questions. “It’s acrylic water based paints. We will put two coats of sealer on when it is all done.”

The panel has a spray foam surface, a medium Jones likes painting on. He said it is more durable than wood and provides a unique texture.

“It adds to the painting, rather than a smooth surface,” Jones said. “This almost gives it another dimension.”

“When we saw the inside of the church, we knew we had the right guy,” Burg said. “We Holdingford page 9

“Even in that old black and white photo (of the mill) there are people standing in the door,” Jones said. “I try to add those details and give it a little more personality.”

Throughout June, July and August, the Sauk Rapids Herald will feature interesting people and places from our neighboring cities.

The mural outside the Holdingford Area Historical Socity Museum was completed by July 22 when a meet and greet took place for Zack Jones, the artist who painted it. The mural depicts how the city received its name.

PHOTOS BY HERMAN LENSING

Zack Jones adds color to the mural July 19 on the Holdingford Area Historical Society Museum wall in Holdingford. The drawing was projected from an image of the painting.

Benton County is open for business

Benton County is a business-friendly community that offers a supportive environment for entrepreneurs and businesses of all sizes. The county’s strong economy, educated workforce and low cost of living make it an attractive destination for businesses looking to expand or relocate.

One of the key reasons why Benton County is business-friendly is its pro-business policies. The county commissioners and city partners are committed to promoting economic development and job creation by supporting a range of incentives and programs to grow and expand businesses in the county. The county also has a relatively low tax rate, which makes it an affordable place to do business.

BENTON ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP

BY AMANDA OTHOUDT AND ELLEN WILLIAMS

Benton County is strategically located. The county is situated in the center of the state and is well-connected to major cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul. This makes it easy for businesses to access key markets and customers as well as transportation and logistics services.

In addition to its location, Benton County has a strong workforce that is highly educated and skilled. The county is home to St. Cloud State University and the St. Cloud Technical and Community College. Both of these colleges provide a pipeline of talented graduates for businesses to tap into. The county also has a range of training and education programs that can help businesses upskill their workforce and stay competitive.

Benton County also has a diverse range of industries, which creates a robust and dynamic econ-

Holdingford

from page 8

Jones projected the image onto the surface and began drawing in lines July 8 during Holdingford Daze and nished by July 21.

“I do a lot of rendering, a lot of blending in the color palette,” he said. “I put in time and elbow grease into getting a painting with depth and a lot of color.”

Burg noticed something about the perspective of the painting.

“You can see a lot of detail closeup, but for you to really get the picture you have to step back,” he said. “When you step back, it gives the picture depth.”

The painting project has received positive comments.

“I never had a reception as warm as that from the people of Holdingford,” Jones said. “People stop by or give a thumbs up. Coming here has been a pleasant surprise.”

It is an example of the community spirit Burg sees in Holdingford.

“Look at the owerbed and garden. It’s all volunteers,” he said. “It takes a community to keep it going. A few people can ruin something, but a few can make it go.”

Close to 300 people

omy. The county’s top industries include healthcare, manufacturing, education and retail. This diversity means businesses can nd a niche that suits their needs and tap into a range of customers and suppliers.

In terms of infrastructure, Benton County has a well-developed transportation system that includes major highways, railroads and airports. The county is also investing in new infrastructure projects, such as the Highway 10 and 23 interchange project, which will improve motorist traf c ow and safety.

The quality of life features a low cost of living, which means that businesses can attract and retain talented employees without having to pay high wages. The county also has a range of recreational opportunities, including parks, lakes and trails, which can help businesses attract and retain employees.

Benton County really is a business-friendly community that offers a range of advantages to entrepreneurs and businesses. Its pro-business policies, strategic location, skilled workforce, diverse industries, strong infrastructure and quality of life make it an attractive destination for businesses looking to expand or relocate.

Benton Economic Partnership can provide resources, mentorship and funding to help new and expanding businesses grow and succeed in the county. If you own a small business in the county and are looking for opportunities and resources to take it to the next level, give us a call at 320-968-6197 or email me at aothoudt@bentonpartnership.org.

Information on Randolph Holding

1844 ..............Born in Coral, Illinois.

1861 ..............Settled in Clearwater.

1862-65 .......Served with the 8th Minnesota Regiment during the Civil War.

1866-68 .......Worked in freight hauling from St. Cloud to the Red River.

1868 ..............Homesteaded land along South Two Rivers.

1870 ..............Helped organize Holding Township plat. Was the first clerk 1870-81.

1872 ..............Was the first postmaster of Holding’s Ford.

1872-73 .......Served in the Minnesota Legislature.

1915 ..............Died in Ransom, North Dakota.

attended a July 22 meet and greet for Jones at the museum in Holdingford.

While the painting

recalls Holdingford’s past, Burg hopes it inspires one generation to help the next generation on their journey into the

COMMUNITY STARS

Benton County marriage application

FOLEY – The following couple has applied for marriage licenses in Benton County.

– Brandon Gary Rehnke and Tristan Kelsea Ellefson, both of Sauk Rapids.

Area students earn degrees

FARGO, N.D. – Sauk Rapids residents Jacob Ackerman and Matthew Krepp have earned degrees from North Dakota State University following spring semester. Ackerman earned a degree in construction engineering while Krepp earned a degree in economics.

MADISON, Wis. – Morgan Zeleny, of Rice, graduated with a master’s degree in social work from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in May.

MENOMONIE, Wis. – Staci Meyer, of Rice, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in technology education from the University of Wisconsin-Stout in December 2022.

Freihammer named to dean’s list

NORTHFIELD – Alexandra Freihammer, daughter of Trent Freihammer of Rice, was named to the St. Olaf College spring dean’s list for achieving a GPA of 3.75 or greater.

future.

“This is not just a painting,” Burg said. “It’s a story.”

PHOTO BY HERMAN LENSING

Zack Jones paints a mural depicting the crossing of South Two Rivers on the Holdingford Area Museum wall July 19 in Holdingford. He started the mural July 8 and finished July 21.

A perfect night to come together

Community members in Sauk Rapids and Rice gathered for National Night Out Aug. 1 before the area had its latest heat spike and temperatures rose into the 90s.

Petra Lutheran Church, of Sauk Rapids, hosted an activity- lled event under the shaded oaks of their grounds. While minutes north, the Rice Women of Today hosted their 35th anniversary celebration at West Side Park in Rice.

National Night Out is a community-building event that happens annually on the rst Tuesday in August. Emergency service personnel often join people within their neighborhoods.

and Emersynn Phenow sit in the front of a Rice Fire Department truck Aug. 1 during National Night Out at West Side Park in Rice. Both the fire and police departments attended the event that was hosted by Rice Women of Today.

PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER

The grounds of Petra Lutheran Church bustle with activity Aug. 1 for National Night Out in Sauk Rapids. The community building event included a complimentary hot dog meal and outdoor games, a bounce house, swag bags and more.

PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER Jackson Regnier is instructed by Carol Wandersee on a fishing game Aug. 1 at the Petra Lutheran Church National Night Out event in Sauk Rapids. Regnier, of St. Cloud, attended school at the parish before the church closed its facility June 30.

PHOTO BY MORGAN EGGERT

Bria Eggert (left) stands with Princess Elsa Aug. 1 at the Rice Women of Today National Night Out celebration in West Side Park in Rice. The nonprofit organization, which annually hosts the event, was celebrating their 35th anniversary on the same night.

PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER

Volunteer Deb Walz coaches Dominic Mulbah as his mom and brother, Mary and Timothy, watch him play a game of handmade Operation Aug. 1 in Sauk Rapids. Mulbah spun the wheel and retrieved candy from the cavities of the game cutout.

PHOTO BY MORGAN EGGERT

Rice firefighter Blake Phenow teaches families about the fire truck and its equipment Aug. 1 at the West Side Park in Rice. Other firefighters and police officers were there to answer questions about equipment and show off their vehicles.

PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER Sauk Rapids Police Chief Perry Beise signs certificates for free meals Aug. 1 at National Night Out in Sauk Rapids. Beise was accompanied by the newest SRPD police officer, Masen Barton, and the two had eight neighborhood stops in the city for the annual event.

STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF BENTON

Case Type: DISTRICT COURT

SUMMONS NOTICE to the person who signed this Summons located at: Rinke Noonan, Ltd., 1015 West St. Germain Street, Suite 300, P.O. Box 1497, St. Cloud, MN 56302-1497.

SEVENTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT

Case No: 05-CV-23-1197

SUMMONS

City of Sauk Rapids, Plaintiff, vs. Jerod R. Dubuque Defendant. THIS SUMMONS IS DIRECTED TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT.

1. YOU ARE BEING SUED. The Plaintiff has started a lawsuit against you. The Plaintiff’s Complaint against you is attached to this Summons. Do not throw these papers away. They are of cial papers that affect your rights. You must respond to this lawsuit even though it may not yet be led with the Court and there may be no court le number on this Summons.

2. YOU MUST REPLY WITHIN 21 DAYS TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS. You must give or mail to the person who signed this Summons a written response called an Answer within 21 days of the date on which you received this Summons. You must send a copy of your Answer

3. YOU MUST RESPOND TO EACH CLAIM. The Answer is your written response to the Plaintiff’s Complaint. In your Answer you must state whether you agree or disagree with each paragraph of the Complaint. If you believe the Plaintiff should not be given everything asked for in the Complaint, you must say so in your Answer.

4. YOU WILL LOSE YOUR CASE IF YOU DO NOT SEND A WRITTEN RESPONSE TO THE COMPLAINT TO THE PERSON WHO SIGNED THIS SUMMONS. If you do not Answer within 21 days, you will lose this case. You will not get to tell your side of the story, and the Court may decide against you and award the Plaintiff everything asked for in the Complaint. If you do not want to contest the claims stated in the Complaint, you do not need to respond. A default judgment can then be entered against you for the relief requested in the Complaint.

5. LEGAL ASSISTANCE. You may wish to

BENTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES JULY 18, 2023

The Benton County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on July 18, 2023, in the Benton County Board Room in Foley, MN. Call to order by Chair Scott Johnson was at 9:00 AM followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the ag. A roll call showed Commissioners Beth Schlangen, Steve Heinen, Scott Johnson, Jared Gapinski and Ed Popp present.

There were two changes to the Agenda: 1) to add the discussion of the St. Cloud Mississippi 1 Watershed 1 Plan as the third item under Land Services Director Roxanne Achman at 9:35 AM; 2) to add the discussion of a Broadband mailer after Achman’s Agenda items at 9:35 AM. Motion by Popp and seconded by Gapinski to approve the amended Agenda. Motion carried unanimously.

Under Open Forum, Frank Hard of 12350 West Lake Road NW Rice, MN, representing Langola Township and the Board of Directors of Townships invited the Commissioners to attend the Township District Meeting on Wednesday, August 16, 2023 at Jack & Jim’s Event Center beginning at 5:30 PM. Mr. Hard also wished to express gratitude to the County Board for approving the AIS Grant for a weed harvester that was purchased in 2022 for weed removal at Little Rock Lake which proved to be very useful this year.

Motion by Gapinski and seconded by Heinen to approve Consent Agenda items 1 – 5: 1) approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of July 5, 2023 and authorize the Chair to sign; 2) approve the Committee of the Whole Meeting Minutes of June 26, 2023 and authorize the Chair to sign; 3) accept and le the County Administrator’s Monthly Financial Report through May 31, 2023; 4) approve the iSeries (AS400) System Hosting Agreement with CPS and authorize the Chair to sign; 5) accept the donation from Rapids River Days Parade via the Benton County Sheriff’s Of ce Signi cant Others Group and authorize the Chair to sign. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Kevin Belfanz of MCIT provided MCIT’s annual presentation to the County Board. This was for informational purposes only.

Next, County Engineer Chris Byrd requested the County Board consider a Special Road Use Permit for Gilman Creamery’s 100-Year Celebration. The Public Works Department has received an application to close a county highway within the City of Gilman for a celebration for the Creamery being in operation for 100 years. The permit application was received from the City of Gilman. Although the City is approving the event being in their city, the event is for the Creamery. This is a new event. The permit has been reviewed by the Police Chief and the Fire Chief with no concerns. Per the fee schedule, this permit requires a $100 fee. The Board has typically waived this fee for municipal festivals, such as Foley Fun Days and Gilman Days, but has not waived for non-municipalities in the past. Motion by Johnson and seconded by Popp to waive the $100 application fee and to approve the Special Road Use Permit for the Gilman Creamery 100-Year Celebration. Motion carried unanimously.

The Regular County Board meeting was recessed at 9:30 AM to conduct a Human Services Board Meeting.

The Regular Board meeting reconvened at 9:33 AM.

Land Services Director Roxanne Achman provided a Land Services Department update for informational purpos-

get legal help from a lawyer. If you do not have a lawyer, the Court Administrator may have information about places where you can get legal assistance. Even if you cannot get legal help, you must still provide a written Answer to protect your rights or you may lose the case.

6. ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION. The parties may agree to or be ordered to participate in an alternative dispute resolution process under Rule 114 of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice. You must still send your written response to the Complaint even if you expect to use alternative means of resolving this dispute.

Dated: July 6, 2023 RINKE NOONAN, LTD.

/s/ Ashley M. Bukowski Ashley M. Bukowski (#0400023)

Adam A. Ripple (#0386989)

Suite 300 US Bank Plaza Building

1015 W. St. Germain St. P.O. Box 1497 St. Cloud, MN 56302-1497 (320) 251-6700 (320) 656-3500 fax Email: Abukowski@RinkeNoonan.com and Aripple@ RinkeNoonan.com

ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFF

R-30-3B

STATE

OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF BENTON Case Type: DISTRICT COURT SEVENTH JUDICIAL

SUMMONS NOTICE to the person who signed this Summons located at: Rinke Noonan, Ltd., 1015 West St. Germain Street, Suite 300, P.O. Box 1497, St. Cloud, MN 56302-1497.

DISTRICT Case No: 05-CV-23-1195

SUMMONS City of Sauk Rapids, Plaintiff, vs. Kurt J. Bruner Defendant. THIS SUMMONS IS DIRECTED TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT.

1. YOU ARE BEING SUED. The Plaintiff has started a lawsuit against you. The Plaintiff’s Complaint against you is attached to this Summons. Do not throw these papers away. They are of cial papers that affect your rights. You must respond to this lawsuit even though it may not yet be led with the Court and there may be no court le number on this Summons.

2. YOU MUST REPLY WITHIN 21 DAYS TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS. You must give or mail to the person who signed this Summons a written response called an Answer within 21 days of the date on which you received this Summons. You must send a copy of your Answer

es. Topics discussed were the Tax/CAMA system conversion, the new Staff Appraiser position, the AgBMP Loan, and the Cannabis Ordinance.

Next, Achman requested the County Board consider a contract renewal with Routeware, formerly ReCollect, for web and mobile services pertaining to waste collection. The County has held a contract with ReCollect since 2018 for services related to a web and mobile application related to waste collection and diversion. ReCollect provided a Waste Management App, Waste Wizard and Waste Storing Game to Benton County residents. In 2022, ReCollect was acquired by Routeware. As sometimes happens, a new master service agreement is introduced to cover the services to be provided by the new company. The County Attorney’s of ce reviewed the new agreement and provided comments. The annual fee for the services provided is in line with the cost and annual increase approved during the initial contract signing with ReCollect. The Solid Waste Service Fee and SCORE funds are used to cover the annual costs. Motion by Gapinski and seconded by Popp to approve the contract with Routeware for services related to a web and mobile application related to waste collection and diversion. Motion carried unanimously.

Next, Achman provided an information on the St. Cloud Mississippi 1 Watershed 1 Plan. Achman asked the County Board for a consensus on how to proceed with the implementation process. The County Board has the option to be a Joint Powers Entity or a Joint Powers Collaborative. Senior Assistant County Attorney Michelle Meyer and Benton SWCD District Manager Gerry Maciej both recommend the Joint Powers Entity because it would have a separate board, they would be separately insured, they would have their own bank accounts and an easier contract approval process. A Collaborative would require contracts to go to each board for approval, which would prolong projects, and that each contract would need to be approved by unanimous vote. There was a consensus among the County Board to move forward with the Joint Powers Entity option.

Next, County Administrator Montgomery Headley received a suggestion to mail the news release regarding Broadband service making its way to rural Benton County. Headley had spoken with Cheryl Scapanski of Benton Communications who recommended mailing the news release to the residents in the Southern Benton County project area (which would be about 850 households). The cost to mail would be approximately $280, and Headley is waiting on a cost esti-

3. YOU MUST RESPOND TO EACH CLAIM. The Answer is your written response to the Plaintiff’s Complaint. In your Answer you must state whether you agree or disagree with each paragraph of the Complaint. If you believe the Plaintiff should not be given everything asked for in the Complaint, you must say so in your Answer.

4. YOU WILL LOSE YOUR CASE IF YOU DO NOT SEND A WRITTEN RESPONSE TO THE COMPLAINT TO THE PERSON WHO SIGNED THIS SUMMONS. If you do not Answer within 21 days, you will lose this case. You will not get to tell your side of the story, and the Court may decide against you and award the Plaintiff everything asked for in the Complaint. If you do not want to contest the claims stated in the Complaint, you do not need to respond. A default judgment can then be entered against you for the relief requested in the Complaint.

5. LEGAL ASSISTANCE. You may wish to get legal help from a lawyer.

If you do not have a lawyer, the Court Administrator may have information about places where you can get legal assistance. Even if you cannot get legal help, you must still provide a written Answer to protect your rights or you may lose the case.

6. ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION. The parties may agree to or be ordered to participate in an alternative dispute resolution process under Rule 114 of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice. You must still send your written response to the Complaint even if you expect to use alternative means of resolving this dispute.

Dated: July 11, 2023

RINKE NOONAN, LTD.

/s/ Ashley M. Bukowski Ashley M. Bukowski (#0400023) Adam A. Ripple (#0386989) Suite 300 US Bank Plaza Building 1015 W. St. Germain St. P.O. Box 1497 St. Cloud, MN 56302-1497 (320) 251-6700 (320) 656-3500 fax

Email: Abukowski@RinkeNoonan.com and Aripple@ RinkeNoonan.com

ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFF

R-30-3B

mate to produce the yers/trifolds. There was a consensus of the County Board to send the mailings out approximately a month before the project begins and to have Benton County cover the cost of the mailings.

Next, Board members reported on recent meetings they attended on behalf of Benton County.

There were no additional comments by Commissioners.

Popp/Heinen to set the Committee of the Whole Meetings: amend the Budget Presentations August 21st – 23rd from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM to Monday, August 21, 2023 from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Tuesday, August 22, 2023 from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, County Boardroom, Foley; Tuesday, August 8, 2023 Annual Foster Care Provider Appreciation Picnic at New Life Church, 931 Norman Ave N, Foley, 5:00 PM; Wednesday, August 16, 2023 Minnesota Association of Townships District 8 Meeting at Jack & Jim’s Event Center, 11025 Duelm Rd NE, Foley, 5:00 PM; Friday, September 8, 2023 Tour of Practices at Benton SWCD Of ce, 14 2nd Ave W, Foley, 8:30 AM; Wednesday, September 13, 2023 through Friday, September 15, 2023 AMC Fall Policy Conference at Arrowwood Resort, 2100 Arrowwood Ln NW, Alexandria, MN 56308, 10:30 AM. Motion carried unanimously.

Chair Johnson adjourned the Regular Board Meeting at 10:17 AM.

ATTEST:

Scott Johnson, Chair Benton County Board of Commissioners

Montgomery Headley

Benton County Administrator

R-31-1B

mortgage:

DATE OF MORTGAGE:

July 21, 2015

MORTGAGOR: Kevin A

Reiter, a single man.

MORTGAGEE: U.S. Bank N.A.

DATE AND PLACE OF RECORDING: Recorded

July 28, 2015 Benton County Recorder, Document No. 410886.

ASSIGNMENTS OF MORTGAGE: NONE

TRANSACTION

AGENT: NONE

TRANSACTION

AGENT’S MORTGAGE

IDENTIFICATION

NUMBER ON MORTGAGE:

NONE

LENDER OR BROKER AND MORTGAGE

ORIGINATOR STATED ON

MORTGAGE: U.S. Bank

N.A. RESIDENTIAL

MORTGAGE SERVICER:

U.S. Bank National Association

MORTGAGED

PROPERTY ADDRESS:

9955 Oak Court Northeast, Rice, MN 56367

TAX PARCEL I.D. #:

120130000

LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY:

Lot Nine (9), in Block Two (2), of Deerwood Estates, also an undivided 1/21st interest in and to Lot Five (5), in Block Two (2), of said Deerwood Estates, according to the plat and survey thereof now on le and of record in the Of ce of the County recorder, in and for Benton County, Minnesota.

COUNTY IN WHICH PROPERTY IS LOCATED:

Benton ORIGINAL PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF MORTGAGE:

$174,000.00

AMOUNT DUE AND CLAIMED TO BE DUE AS OF DATE OF NOTICE, INCLUDING TAXES, IF ANY, PAID BY MORTGAGEE:

$156,849.99

That prior to the commencement of this mortgage foreclosure proceeding Mortgagee/ Assignee of Mortgagee complied with all notice requirements as required by statute; That no action or proceeding has been instituted at law or otherwise to recover the debt secured by said mortgage, or any part thereof;

PURSUANT to the power of sale contained in said mortgage, the above described property will be sold by the Sheriff of said

county as follows:

DATE AND TIME OF SALE: September 26, 2023 at 10:00 AM

NOTICE OF MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE SALE THE RIGHT TO VERIFICATION OF THE DEBT AND IDENTITY OF THE ORIGINAL CREDITOR WITHIN THE TIME PROVIDED BY LAW IS NOT AFFECTED BY THIS ACTION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that default has occurred in conditions of the following described

PLACE OF SALE: Benton County Sheriff’s Of ce, 581 Highway 23 Northeast Foley, MN to pay the debt then secured by said Mortgage, and taxes, if any, on said premises, and the costs and disbursements, including attorneys’ fees allowed by law subject to redemption within six (6) months from the date of said sale by the mortgagor(s), their personal representatives or assigns unless reduced to Five (5) weeks under MN Stat. §580.07.

TIME AND DATE TO VACATE PROPERTY: If the real estate is an owneroccupied, single-family dwelling, unless otherwise provided by law, the date on or before which the mortgagor(s) must vacate the property if the mortgage is not reinstated under section 580.30 or the property is not redeemed under section 580.23 is 11:59 p.m. on March 26, 2024, unless that date falls on a weekend or legal holiday, in which case it is the next weekday, and unless the redemption period is reduced to 5 weeks under MN Stat. Secs. 580.07 or 582.032.

MORTGAGOR(S)

RELEASED FROM FINANCIAL OBLIGATION ON MORTGAGE: None

“THE TIME ALLOWED BY LAW FOR REDEMPTION BY THE MORTGAGOR, THE MORTGAGOR’S PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OR ASSIGNS, MAY BE REDUCED TO FIVE WEEKS IF A JUDICIAL ORDER IS ENTERED UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, SECTION 582.032, DETERMINING, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THAT THE MORTGAGED PREMISES ARE IMPROVED WITH A RESIDENTIAL DWELLING OF LESS THAN FIVE UNITS, ARE NOT PROPERTY USED IN AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, AND ARE ABANDONED.”

Dated: July 26, 2023

U.S. Bank National Association Mortgagee/Assignee of Mortgagee LIEBO, WEINGARDEN, DOBIE & BARBEE, P.L.L.P. Attorneys for Mortgagee/ Assignee of Mortgagee

4500 Park Glen Road #300 Minneapolis, MN 55416

(952) 925-6888 19 - 23-004364 FC IN THE EVENT REQUIRED BY FEDERAL LAW: THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. R-31-6B

Love of dance

inspires new head coach

Former assistant DesMarais welcomes challenge

BY TOM FENTON STAFF WRITER

Shantelle DesMarais considered herself a bit of in introvert. Growing up in the quiet southwest Minnesota town of Pipestone, communicating well with others was not one of her strengths.

While she enjoyed dance in her youth, DesMarais remained mostly reserved. Then, her mother took her to see “The Nutcracker.” It changed her entire perspective.

“I fell in love with dance right away,” DesMarais said. “I was obsessed with it. I wanted to start taking ballet and training more seriously. I love that it’s a way for me to communicate. I’ve never been the strongest verbal communicator, so this was a way for me to nd more con dence, and it’s helped me just in other areas of my life. It’s kind

of a nice mixture of sport and art at the same time.”

Her love of dance, along with track and eld, brought the 2016 Pipestone High School graduate to St. Cloud State University. After spending the past three seasons as assistant coach with the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School dance team, DesMarais has been elevated to head coach.

DesMarais, who owns and operates Elevate Dance Center in downtown Sauk Rapids, inherits a program that has competed at the Minnesota State High School League state tournament in both jazz and high kick the past two years.

That means pressure to perform will be there –to which DesMarais said, “bring it on.”

“I enjoyed the past three seasons as an assistant coach, and I wanted to continue on with that,”

PUBLIC NOTICES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Benton County Board of Adjustment will conduct public hearings on August 17th, 2023, in the Commissioner’s Room, Benton County Government Center, Foley, and beginning at 7:00 p.m. The Board of Adjustment will hear the following:

1. Helmin Landscaping requesting a variance to allow a second billboard sign on a lot (limit one per lot) in the B-2 Business District. Pursuant to Sections 8.1.7(B) and 11.5 of the Development Code. The affected property is described as follows: part of the SW1/4 NW1/4, Section 26, Watab Township. The on-site inspection of this property will be made at approximately 1:25 p.m. on August 17th, 2023.

2. David and Elaine Watts requesting a variance to place a septic drain eld 0ft from the property line (10ft required) in the R-2 Residential District. Pursuant to Sections 9.22.7(E) and 11.5. The affected property is described as follows: south 25ft of Lot 2 and Lot 3, Miller’s Lakeshore Acres, Section 11, Watab Township. The on-site inspection of this property will be made at approximately 1:45 p.m. on August 17th, 2023.

ANYONE with comments regarding the above will be heard at this meeting.

R31-1B

DesMarais said. “It’s something I’m super-passionate about. That’s why I also have a dance studio. … I want to (teach dance) the rest of my life. This just seems like a good opportunity and something that I was really excited to do once I found out the opportunity was there.”

She is not saying it will not be challenging.

In 2021, the Storm won section championships in both divisions and quali ed for the nals (top six) at state. Last year, SRR won the section in jazz and was runner-up in kick before narrowly missing out on the nals at state – placing seventh in both in the preliminaries.

Adding to the challenge is the fact the program moves from Class AA to AAA, meaning it will be competing against Central Lakes Conference rivals Sartell and Brainerd, which are both perennial

state tournament contenders in the state’s largest class.

Part of taking that next step, DesMarais said, starts with self-belief.

“Over this past summer, we started talking a lot about grit, and that’s important because we have a lot of very talented athletes,” DesMarais said. “The girls do have condence in themselves, but they need more of it. They need to know they’re capable of anything they set their mind to, and sometimes with dance, we’re so critical of ourselves that we can kind of get in our own way of our success.”

DesMarais competed four years in track and eld for SCSU, which is far from surprising considering she stands 5-feet, 11 inches. She also competed with the Huskies dance team for one year, but doing both became too much. She decided to focus her attention on track.

The team will again have a fall season, but the competition portion will not begin until December. DesMarais was surprised the position became available, and she cannot wait to get going.

“I actually didn’t expect Jennie (Weber) to be leaving and I thought she was great,” DesMarais said. “So, I had no nothing oating around in my brain as far as becoming a head coach. But when I did nd out that was happening, I just felt it was like, ‘Oh, I really want to do this.’ We have a lot of kids in the program, and one thing I love about it is that it feels like a family.”

PHOTO BY TOM FENTON Shantelle DesMarais is the new head coach of the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School dance team. The Pipestone High School graduate competed for four years on the St. Cloud State University track and field team and one year on the Huskies dance team.

Up close, personal

Local golfer relishes volunteer duties at 3M Open

BY TOM FENTON STAFF WRITER

Alex Buysse often envisioned himself as a PGA Tour player growing up in Minneota. Once he realized that is a dream only the elite of the elite achieve, he gured volunteering at professional tournaments was the next best thing.

Though he is not wowing golf fans with 350-yard drives, pinpoint approach shots or holing long birdie putts while competing for millions of dollars, Buysse has compiled countless memories while inside the ropes. He has heard stories, received signed golf balls and now owns treasured pictures alongside some of the game’s biggest names, making his volunteer duty at the 3M Open at TPC Twin Cities in Blaine an annual highlight.

“It’s a fantastic experience,” said Buysse, who carries a 2.9 USGA handicap index. “It’s just really cool to see behind the scenes how everything works. It’s a lot more intricate than I ever imagined. To be right next to the best players in the world for a whole round and getting to interact with them occasionally is awesome.”

Buysse did not play golf in high school, though he loved the game and played as much as he could between baseball practice – his favorite sport at the time. Growing up on a farm, he visited his grandparents’ home in town during summer, where he would bike to the city pool or golf course.

After graduating from Minnesota State University-Mankato in 2012, Buysse moved to St. Cloud. The 33-year-old works in the Stearns County AuditorTreasurer Of ce and has been a member at Wapicada Golf Club in Sauk Rapids for 10 years.

On the course, his biggest accomplishment was winning the Wynston Boe Open last summer in Minneota, an event where he served as a ball-spotter as a kid.

His off-the-course volunteering began at the 3M Championship in 2016, which then was a PGA Tour Champions event for players 50 and

Twins stand pat at trade deadline

Major League Baseball’s trade deadline has come and gone, and the Minnesota Twins decided not to make any moves to improve their awed roster. The 55-54 Twins hold a two-game lead over a Cleveland Guardians team that just traded away multiple quality players for prospects, so doing nothing might prove to be good enough to win the American League Central division.

By de nition, someone has to win this division. However, for fans of a team who have waited almost two decades to see a single playoff victory, this trade deadline strategy falls extremely at.

The Twins have clear weaknesses that should have been addressed at the deadline. This team doesn’t have a single above-average right-handed hitter in their lineup, as evidenced by their MLB-worst .658 OPS, or on base plus slugging, against left-handed pitchers. The Twins also need bullpen help, and now that Brock Stewart has suffered a setback in his recovery from an elbow injury, we are going to be seeing a lot more of Emilio Pagan in high-leverage situations. Huzzah.

over. For three years, he served as a marshal on the sixth hole at TPC Blaine, where his duties included spotting golf balls while managing the crowd and making sure they were quiet while players were hitting.

That job eventually lost its luster, so Buysse sought something different.

“You see the same shot over and over for multiple days, and it just got to be kind of boring even though it was still really good golf,” Buysse said. “So, when the tournament switched to the 3M Open and the PGA Tour, I became a walking scorer where I follow a group and keep

track of each shot they hit.”

When Jim Nantz of CBS Sports or one of the on-course reporters barks out a yardage over the air, that information comes from volunteers like Buysse, who use an intricate system called ShotLink.

Walking scorers carry a handheld device with each player’s name in their group. Their job includes tracking the group’s location, where the player is hitting from – such as the fairway, rough, deep rough, bunker or green – while indicating when the player both addresses and hits the ball.

The experience

answered his question of how the PGA Tour determines such exact yardages.

“All of this data is collected and used for the players’ statistics, pace of play for the rules of cials, yardages for the television broadcast, video boards around the tournament, third-party apps and a bunch of other things,” Buysse said. “Then, as soon as they hit the ball, I push ‘shot hit’ on the screen and that lets the laser operators know the ball is on the way.

Buysse page 16

The team’s front of ce remains convinced their roster is good enough to win games and to a certain extent, they’re right. The team has received great performances thus far from their starting pitchers; although, Joe Ryan and Sonny Gray have come back to earth a little bit in recent outings. Young hitters like Alex Kirilloff, Matt Wallner and Edouard Julien have excelled when given consistent at-bats. The issue is the Twins have gotten extremely poor production out of veterans like Byron Buxton, Carlos Correa, Jorge Polanco and Joey Gallo. If any of those guys start performing at levels consistent with their career numbers, the Twins will likely cruise to a division championship.

The Twins were probably a little more cautious at the trade deadline this year after they got utterly eeced last summer. As we discussed last week, the Jorge Lopez trade was an abject disaster, but let’s not forget the Twins also gave up both Spencer Steer and Christian Encarnacion-Strand in their deal to acquire Tyler Mahle, who pitched a grand total of nine games for the Twins. Meanwhile, Steer and EncarnacionStrand are both starters for an upstart Reds team that is in rst place in the National League Central division. To make matters worse, Steer and Encarnacion-Strand are both quality right-handed hitters with pop that would be exactly what the Twins need right now.

This trade deadline feels like a missed opportunity for the Twins. Sure, this team might win the pathetic American League Central division after standing pat, but is that what this team’s goal should be? All four of the other teams in the division were sellers at the deadline and actively made their current rosters worse. If the Twins crash and burn down the stretch, or if they limp to a division title and then get swept again in the rst round of the playoffs, the front of ce needs to be held accountable for failing to improve their team’s awed roster at the trade deadline.

PHOTO COURTESY OF 3M OPEN

Alex Buysse (right) walks along with his group during his duties as a scorer at the PGA Tour’s 3M Open at the TPC Twin Cities in late July in Blaine. Walking scorers track group location, where the player is hitting from as well as when the player addresses and hits the ball.

Drought assistance programs

AG BENTON

Loss of hearing is not an obstacle for future Benton County 4-H’er

BY TIM HENNAGIR STAFF WRITER

All youth need opportunities to be involved in activities that showcase their talents.

Programs like 4-H empower disabled youth. They also build unique friendships.

by Ryan Brunn, executive director

Benton and Mille Lacs counties

With the extremely dry weather we have been experiencing in central Minnesota, we have now triggered additional Farm Service Agency programs to assist livestock producers.

All producers in Benton, Mille Lacs, Sherburne and Anoka counties can apply for the following programs if applicable to their farming operation. Please read about the below programs and see if FSA can help.

Livestock forage losses

Producers are eligible to apply for the 2023 Livestock Forage Disaster Program bene ts on small grain, native pasture, improved pasture, annual ryegrass and forage sorghum intended for grazing.

Programs page 3B

Five-year old Stella Mielke did not hear the cheers when she participated at the Benton County Fair as an open class novice during the Aug. 1 swine judging.

“Stella has to overcome barriers because she’s deaf,” said her mother, Jade. “Having a disability isn’t an obstacle to 4-H. Stella and sister, Hailey, have lots of gumption.”

The girls’ swine-showing received a helping hand from Corey, Vicky, Morgan and Austin Molitor.

Next year’s goal is having Stella become a fully bloomed 4-H Cloverbud, joining Hailey at the fair showing pigs.

“Don’t forget that 4-H is for everybody,” Vicky said. “It allows anyone to participate. That’s the message.”

Austin agreed with his mother’s assessment regarding Stella’s participation and her impact upon others.

“She should get the same opportunities as everyone else,” he said. “A disability should not be a barrier. Stella makes me work harder to be better with my 4-H involvement, and she has a lot of fun doing it.”

Jade, Hailey and Stella participated in a school event that featured Tank, the Molitor’s crossbred calico market barrow. It was not long before Tank and Hailey formed a bond.

When Austin applied for a job at the Mielke family’s dairy farm and was hired, he was asked about the process of getting involved in 4-H.

“Hailey got us involved

world

with the Molitors’ pigs,” Jade said. “When she started walking and caring for a pig, Stella was determined she was going to do the same thing. Since Stella is deaf, my participation involves communicating with sign language, which Morgan and Austin have picked up and learned.”

Sauk Rapids Herald | Saturday, Aug. 5, 2023

Serving rural Benton, Morrison, Mille Lacs and Kanabec counties

Farm Service Agency News

for

Mielke’s animal interactions occur in silent

PHOTO BY TIM HENNAGIR Stella Mielke is all smiles after giving a crossbred calico gilt named Possum a quick brushing and plenty of pre-event attention prior to an novice appearance at the Aug. 1 Benton County Fair 4-H swine show in Sauk Rapids. Stella is deaf, and sign language is one tool when visiting with the Corey and Vicky Molitor family. Mielke page 2B

Cover Crop OF THE MONTH

Mielke from page 1B

Jade said showing an animal at the fair requires plenty of hands-on learning.

For Stella and Hailey, that work ethic and philosophy developed over the spring and summer months.

“We spent time with Morgan and Austin on Saturday mornings and Sunday afternoons because it worked best for our schedule,” Jade said. “If I had a day off, I would text Austin and ask if we could come and do pigs. He’s really special.”

Pearl millet

Producers may know that cover crops benefit the soil and agricultural operations, but do they know the benefits of each species? Each month a different cover crop species will be highlighted to provide producers with information needed to successfully grow cover crops or alternative forages on their operation.

Pearl millet is a warm season grass that is typically used for forage. It is a fast-growing crop that is high yielding, making it excellent for haylage or grazing. The origin of pearl millet is not completely known but is believed to have domesticated in west Africa.

Pearl millet provides many benefits to soil and animals. The fibrous root system makes it great to reduce soil erosion and scavenge for nutrients. The high amounts of biomass make it excellent at suppressing weeds and as a high-quality forage. The forage value of pearl millet varies based on the growth stage of the millet, but one can expect to see crude protein levels of 8% to 11%. Total digestible nutrient levels will be around 55%.

One advantage pearl millet has compared to sorghum or sudangrass species is that it does not produce prussic acid which is a major win when grazing summer warm season grasses. Beyond the individual benefits, pearl millet, overall, is a great soil builder.

Pearl millet should be planted at a depth of half an inch to an inch between the dates of June 1 and Aug. 1 for the most growth potential. Rates of seeding will vary based on the intended use but starts at 20 pounds an acre of seed.

Information provided by the Morrison County Soil and Water Conservation District.

Earlier this week, Stella and Austin took to the arena with Possum, a crossbred calico gilt, during the 2023 Benton County 4-H swine show. Morgan and Hailey showed Tank during the Cloverbuds portion of the Aug. 1 show program.

“The Molitor kids have shown Stella how to do the tasks that need to get done when caring for pigs and showing at the county fair,” Jade said. “She doesn’t have any barriers in that area.”

Clint Mielke, the girls’ father, has been

involved with dairy farming his entire life. The family currently milks about 170 head.

“It’s good the girls are learning from Austin,” he said. “He really works them. They love doing it. He’s really, really good with younger kids.

Holly Bloch (from left), Chad Zirbes and Justin Gertken are pictured Oct. 11 at Midsota Trailer Sales and Service in Avon, where they are proud to be a one-stop shop for their customers.

BA31-1B-RB

Morgan Molitor and Hailey Mielke show a crossbred calico market barrow named Tank during the Cloverbuds portion of the Aug. 1 swine show program at the Benton County Fair in Sauk Rapids. The duo worked during the spring and summer months to train the pig on the Molitor farm.

PHOTOS BY TIM HENNAGIR

Austin Molitor and Stella Mielke enter the arena show ring with a crossbred calico gilt during the Aug. 1 Benton County Fair 4-H swine show in Sauk Rapids. The duo have used sign language to communicate and overcome Stella’s hearing loss.

Mielke page 3B

Help prevent equipment-caused wildfires

ST. PAUL – Drought conditions in Minnesota are increasing wild re risk in central Minnesota. Recently, several equipment-caused wild res have occurred, according to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

Exhaust systems and motors can reach temperatures of more than 1,000 degrees during operation, and equipment can create sparks by hitting rocks or hard surfaces.

Taking steps to maintain

equipment and putting safety rst will help reduce unintentional, equipment-caused wild res.

It only takes one spark to turn harvest season into wild re season. Whether people are working in the eld, doing yard work or operating other heavy machinery, they can help prevent wild res by following these tips:

– Keep equipment maintained to minimize overheating and sparks.

– Look to the rear regularly to make sure equipment is not start-

Mielke from page 2B

I’ve de nitely learned a lot more about pigs as part of a rst-year 4-H family. Austin, and Morgan, have shown Stella and Hailey everything that’s involved with showing pigs.”

Clint said post-Benton County Fair life is going to be dif cult regarding the girls’ relationship with Tank.

“He was placed on the 4-H auction,” Clint said. “That was hard when it happened, but we previously explained to Hailey that a pig going to butcher is all part of the deal when you raise fair livestock.”

Benton County has always had a strong swine

Programs

from page 1B

LFP provides compensation if producers suffer grazing losses for covered livestock due to drought on privately owned or cash-leased land or re on federally managed land.

County committees can only accept LFP applications after notication of a qualifying drought is received by the national of ce or if a federal agency prohibits producers from grazing normal permitted livestock on federally managed lands due to qualifying re.

ELAP covers losses from transporting water to livestock

If producers incurred additional operating costs for transporting water to livestock due to an eligible drought, assistance may be available through the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees and Farm-Raised Fish Program.

Eligible livestock must be adult or nonadult dairy cattle, beef cattle, buffalo and beefalo as well as alpacas, deer, elk, emus, equine, goats, llamas, reindeer, horses or sheep. Additionally, the livestock must have been owned 60 calendar days prior to the beginning of the drought and be physically located in the county designated as a disaster

area due to drought. Adequate livestock watering systems or facilities must have existed before the drought occurred, and producers are only eligible if they do not normally transport water to the livestock.

Livestock that were or would have been in a feedlot are not eligible for transporting water. ELAP covers the additional cost of transporting water and does not cover the cost of the water itself.

Producers must le a notice of loss on form CCC-851 the earlier of 30 calendar days of when the loss is apparent to them. Additionally, the deadline to submit an application for payment for 2023 ELAP assistance is Jan. 31, 2024.

Documentation that shows the method used to transport the water, the number of gallons of water transported and the number of eligible livestock to which water was transported must be provided to FSA.

CRP non-emergency haying/grazing provisions expanded FSA is reminding Conservation Reserve Program participants and livestock producers about the expanded haying and grazing opportunities included in the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, also known as the 2018 farm bill. The greater exibility in non-emergency haying and

ing res.

– Park on gravel or pavement whenever possible. Avoid idling or parking near tall grasses or vegetation.

– When doing in- eld repairs, use extreme caution when welding, torching or grinding.

– Keep a water supply extinguisher and tools nearby as well as a phone to call for help.

If you spot a wild re, call 911. Fire danger can change quickly. Check current conditions at mndnr.gov/burnrestrictions.

livestock program and participation at its county fair, said Nathan Oliver, a Benton County 4-H volunteer judge from Becker who observed Stella and Hailey Aug. 1 as they moved around the ring.

Oliver runs about 20 purebred breeding stock sows and ve boars on his 200-acre farm.

He had lots of post-showing praise for this year’s Benton County open class novices and Cloverbud fair participants.

“These kids are the future of our program,” Oliver said. “I admire the families and older mentors. This is how you build an industry. It’s rare to nd this type of 4-H participation, so any opportunity like this that you encounter is really fantastic.”

Central Dairy Field Day

A Melrose dairy farm is the site of an upcoming dairy field day.

Dairy farmers and industry professionals will gather from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 8, at Funk’s Midway Dairy, 32952 330th St., Melrose, for this year’s Central Dairy Field Day.

Funk’s Midway Dairy is owned and operated by four families, which milk 700 cows with a double 12 parlor as well as two robots. Participants will learn about forages, robots, farm management styles and reproduction enterprise. Register at extension.umn.edu/event/central-dairyfield-day-2023.

For additional information, contact Dana Adams at 320-204-2968 or adam1744@umn.edu.

Irrigation, Nutrient Management Field Day

The University of Minnesota Extension is hosting an Irrigation and Nutrient Management Field Day from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 10, at Sand Plain Research Farm in Big Lake. Topics of the free field day will include precision irrigation and nitrogen management in corn and potato fields, soil moisture sensing technology for irrigation scheduling and enhanced efficiency fertilizers. Complimentary dinner is included.

Find more information or register at z.umn.edu/irrigationfieldday or by contacting Taylor Herbert at 612-3945229 or thebert@umn.edu.

grazing provisions of the conservation program maintain appropriate protections to maintain the desired soil, water and wildlife bene ts. Haying and grazing of CRP conservation cover, if done responsibly, have been shown to diversify covers, improve existing stands and provide benets to wildlife habitat.

All practices are now eligible for non-emergency haying and grazing except for CP-12 wildlife food plots and the following tree practices (CP3, CP3A, CP5A, CP16A, CP17A, CP31, CP36, CP38 (unless authorized by the SAFE agreement) and CP-38). The new provisions allow the CP-23, CP-23A, CP-21 and CP-25 acreages to be hayed or grazed. This change provides signicant increase of acres eligible for consideration for authorized harvesting of hay or grazing.

The Natural Resources Conservation Service will work with CRP participants to develop a Conservation Plan of Operations that provides guidelines that must be followed when grazing CRP. Non-emergency grazing must not exceed 120 days and may begin based upon the established date in the plan. Grazing must end the earlier of the minimum grazing heights required entering the dormancy growing season or the date specied in the plan.

CRP participants are required to le a request for haying or grazing and receive written approval from FSA prior to any haying or grazing. Applications will identify the acreage requested for haying or grazing. The same acreage must not be hayed and grazed in the same year. A Conservation Plan of Operation will be developed for all haying and grazing requests. Participants must agree to re-establish, at their own expense, any cover destroyed or damaged as a result of haying or grazing. The plan will include dates for haying and bales to be removed and grazing beginning and ending dates in which livestock must be removed. Participants are required to report the number of acres hayed or grazed within 10 working days of the established end dates. Compliance reviews of haying and grazing reports are conducted annually.

TK Timber

The Sand Plain Research Farm is located near Knife River Corporation, 16491 157th St. SE, Big Lake. From the intersection of Highway 10 and Minnesota County Road 11, proceed south to 157th Street Southeast and turn right. Travel 100 yards and prepare to turn left. Signs will direct people to the field day.

Soil Solutions Field Day

Farmers and agricultural experts from across the region are set to gather from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 7, for the University of Minnesota Extension Soil Solutions Field Day.

The event – which takes place at West Central Research and Outreach Center, located at 46352 Highway 329, Morris – aims to explore innovative methods to enhance farm productivity through the promotion of healthy soil. A wide range of sessions will be offered throughout the day, covering various topics such as tillage choices in soil conditions, water management through cover crops, planting green during dry years and the detrimental impact of soil erosion on crop productivity.

For additional information about the event and to assure a complimentary lunch, individuals can visit z.umn. edu/Sept7.

For inquiries, contact Jodi DeJong-Hughes at dejon003@umn.edu or 320-815-4112.

Women in Ag Field Day for Productive Soil

University of Minnesota Extension Women in Ag Network is hosting the Thriving Roots Field Day from 8:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 8, at the West Central Research and Outreach Center, 46352 Highway 329 Morris.

The event is designed for women passionate about farm productivity through healthy soil. Extension educators, soil specialists and topic experts will offer hands-on sessions on topics that include tillage in soil conditions, cover crop roots and their effects on soil, planting green information about cereal rye crops, methods to reduce soil erosion and the economics of cover crops.

For more information and to register, visit z.umn.edu/ Sept8. A complimentary lunch and beverages will be provided.

Benton County Tour of Practices

The Benton Soil and Water Conservation District and Natural Resources Conservation Service will host it annual Tour of Practices from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 8.

The tour consists of visiting sites and learning about projects of the Benton SWCD and NRCS.

The free tour includes complimentary lunch. Attendees must register by Friday, Sept. 1, to participate by contacting Renee Thell at 320-968-5300, ext. 3 or renee.thell@ mn.nacdnet.net.

Water:

Hydration, irrigation key to productive field

BY JAKOB KOUNKEL STAFF WRITER

A farmer can do everything right. They can use just the right amount of fertilizer. They can meticulously plant their crops at the right speed, and they can have the highest quality soil. They can be as punctual as possible. They can buy the highest quality equipment and seeds.

But, as the crops go in the ground, even after going the extra mile with the legwork and due diligence, many farmers have one question on their minds: Will Mother Nature cooperate this year?

There are many elements at the heart of achieving a successful yield year in and year out, and farmers across the spectrum may offer various answers to what contributes most effectively to production. Without hydration, the plight of the farmer intensi es, and everything else becomes noise.

At the Brian and Glen Kaschmitter farm July 13 in Sauk Rapids, irrigation systems and rainfall were top of mind. Benton Soil and Water Conservation District partnered with representatives from the Natural Resources Conservation Service to talk about water quality through a program called “We Are Water.” The Kaschmitters

The cornerstone of agriculture

said, is the time-saving aspect. Brian said they likely save more than 50% of their time, and Glen said it might be more like two-thirds of time savings.

Alex Udermann, a Foleybased farmer, also spoke at the event regarding his farm. He recently transitioned to notill practices.

“We were going to go the strip-till route, but units are spendy and so we decided to go straight no-till,” Udermann said. “And we are not looking back.”

A rainfall simulator demonstration shows the impact of cover crops and various soil types that were pulled from nearby fields July 13 on farm property owned by Glen and Brian Kaschmitter in Sauk Rapids. The demonstration showed a 1-inch rainfall event and how varying soil types react with varying levels of cover crops; from left to right, the soil starts as high quality with live crops and moves to lower quality soil with no top dressing.

hosted the most recent event at their farm.

Part of the reason why the Kaschmitters were selected to host is because they operate a Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality certi ed farm. The certi cation shows the Kaschmitters have managed their land in a way that protects water quality. The other reason is the Kaschmitters, since 2002, have transitioned to using mostly no-till farming methods.

The Kaschmitters are so

focused on conservation not only for the bene t of their crop yield but also to be good stewards of the land and pass it on to future generations. It is important to them that their children and grandchildren have quality soil and farm practices already in place.

“We only have one soil,” Glen said. “We’re here to make it better not wreck it.”

Brian said water is key.

“Everybody standing here today knows how important water is,” Brian said. “A human will die in ve days

without it, and plants won’t produce a crop.”

Much of the conversation with the Kaschmitters revolved around their no-till practices. No-till practices slow evaporation, according to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, meaning better water absorption of rainwater, but the practice also increases irrigation ef ciency, which leads to higher yields, especially during hot and dry years.

No-till farming can also reduce soil erosion by more than 80%, the state ag department reports. It provides for better water quality by keeping sediments on the land and out of nearby bodies of water.

One of the biggest advantages, the Kaschmitters

Udermann brought equipment to the event for people to inspect and ask questions about. But Udermann did not have much to say other than that no-till practices on his farm are working better than he could have imagined.

“We sold all of our tillage equipment,” Udermann said. “It works, and I’ll argue with anyone who says it doesn’t work.”

Ann Brieger, the vice president of the Irrigators Association of Minnesota, advocated in favor of irrigation systems to combat hot and drought years. Brieger farms in southern Minnesota, and the soil conditions there are less than quality, she said. Her entire farm is under irrigation, and she spends a signi cant amount of time advocating that other farmers get into irrigation systems if they have the means.

Brieger said one of the biggest battles in water irrigation systems for farmers is the public’s view. Farmers know how crucial they are for the world’s food supply, but Brieger said the public seems to be growing less knowledgeable about their food sources, especially in the metro areas across the country.

Water page 5B

PHOTOS BY JAKOB KOUNKEL

A no-till machine owned by Alex Udermann was on display for all to examine and ask questions about July 13 on farm property owned by Glen and Brian Kaschmitter in Sauk Rapids. Udermann is a Foley farmer.

Stepping into the show ring

Water from page 4B

“I encourage everybody to tell your neighbors and educate people who don’t know much about farming,”

said. “Advocate for yourself. We need to get more people understanding how irrigation works and how important it is for the farmer.”

Brian (left) and Glen Kaschmitter speak about no-till and water conservation practices July 13 on their farm property in Sauk Rapids. The Kaschmitters operate a Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality certified farm.

Brieger

A miniature, automated irrigation system sits on display at the ag conservation event July 13 on farm property owned by Glen and Brian Kaschmitter in Sauk Rapids. The model was built by students at Central Lakes College in Staples.

(Top) Nolan Hackett, of the Mayhew Lakers 4-H Club, leads a breeding heifer into the ring during the beef show Aug. 1 at the Benton County Fair in Sauk Rapids. 4-H youth participated in livestock shows Aug. 1-5, which included but were not limited to swine, beef, sheep, dairy, poultry and horse.

(Right) Tosh Maus, of the Green Acres 4-H Club, holds a butcher chicken inside the poultry building at the Benton County Fair Aug. 1 in Sauk Rapids. The animal was shown as part of a market pen.

PHOTOS BY NATASHA BARBER Bradley Plumski, of the Elk River Critters 4-H Club, leads a registered spring calf into the show ring Aug. 1 at the Benton County Fair in Sauk Rapids. The fair took place Aug. 1-6.

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Chicken about chickens

Unexpectedly, the chickens came to roost in April.

Well, two chickens came to live on our farm.

Getting chickens had been a standard topic with my sisters every time we got together for a hen party and drank a little wine. They, being cityfolk, didn’t have experience with poultry either, but we all liked the romantic notion of a farmer’s wife earning the proverbial egg-money.

But how many chickens did one need to generate a nest-egg?

I’d had a bit of experience with poultry when my sons were small. They had been invited by friends to go biking on a local trail, and so I had dutifully loaded their bikes into our pickup and drove them to the meeting point. Once they were on their way, I had some time to waste until meeting at the agreed upon destination.

I enjoyed driving along back roads and was thrilled to nd a garage sale in a farmer’s yard. I

drove in and looked over the tables. I wasn’t nding anything of use, but then a sign caught my eye: Chickens for sale. Hmmm. That seemed interesting. I inquired about the cost and jumped at the opportunity when I found out they were only $5 each. Some youngsters wrangled up two birds and stuck them in a large cardboard box. Oh, I thought, this is going to make for great giggles the next time I meet with my sisters.

My sons were thrilled with my purchase when I picked them up after the bike trip. All the way home, they talked about names, where the birds would live, what we would feed them, etc. My husband chuckled when he saw what I’d brought home, and we decided their home would be in the hayshed with the older calves.

I looked forward to helping with chores because it was fun watching those chickens strut around the yard. Also, I was anticipating nding an egg or two at some point, and I asked our farmhand to keep an eye out for any.

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It wasn’t until a few weeks later when I questioned him about whether he’d seen any when he laughed good-naturedly and said, “You’re not going to get any eggs. You bought two roosters.”

Ugh! I know now that it’s dif cult to determine the gender of a fowl until they are older.

It didn’t matter though. I quit looking for eggs and started enjoying the personalities of those roosters, and I got pretty good at crowing like them.

Now, many years later, I’ve got the real deal. The aunt of my step-granddaughter-to-be had two hens that were bullying her other birds, so she needed to rehome them. Of course, I said yes when I was asked if the two unruly birds could come live on our farm.

My son bought a coop and set it up, and for the last several months, we’ve enjoyed nding at least two eggs in the nest every morning. That is until recently. One of the hens has become “broody.” What?

Why can’t the hens be as simple to care for as the roosters were?

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Planning, pile-counting, planting

Twenty years from now, this season may be one for the, “I still remember the summer of 2023,” kind of les. That record isn’t quite complete yet. It doesn’t take an in-depth analysis to realize that adequate and timely precipitation plays a large role in forage yield and resulting feed stocks on the farm.

University of MN Extension

by Tyler Rice

The drought has surely taken a toll in our region, and livestock producers may be looking for alternative ways of supplementing their supply. Though we cannot plan for everything, we can employ strategies now that will be helpful in managing our feed stocks through the winter and, if we choose, last-hour emergency forage additions.

Now is a good time to take stock of your forage inventory and to use inventories to plan.

For baled hay, the process is fairly straight forward. Take a census of bale numbers and weight (and perhaps shape and size) of bales. Bales may be sorted according to species, cutting and forage quality. In this case, bale inventory should also take into account the percent of moisture of hay when inventories assume a dry matter as-fed basis. This includes taking stock of baleage. For ensiled forage stored in a silage bag, inventories can be assessed by nding the total volume of the lled bag and estimating the density of dry matter (usually between 11-15 pounds dry matter per cubic foot). Do not fail to account for

un lled portions of the bag. Horizontal bunkers and piles can present unique challenges when one is trying to inventory feed. Similar to the above silage bag method, an accurate estimate of total volume including the height, length and width is required as well as an estimate of dry matter density. A careless estimate of any of these features will result in an answer that is less than thorough. Tower silos can make the task a bit easier by providing already known dimensions for volume while density is still a misnomer. Feed in the lower features of the silo are going to be more densely packed than feed in the upper part.

Sometimes it is advantageous to purchase feed in-season. This approach can be accomplished by buying directly from other forage producers or purchasing feed at local auctions. If there is a real need to augment feed supply at this point, creative strategies, which often include working with neighboring farmers, can change the game. Planting a cool-season cereal or cover crop for forage now, with the aid of later season rain, can also help supplement feed supplies come fall, even early spring.

For help in accomplishing the tasks above or for more strategies related to late-season forage alternatives, contact your local crops or livestock University of Minnesota Extension educator.