Sauk Rapids Herald - November 25, 2023 by Star Publications

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Saturday, November 25, 2023

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

Vol. 169, No. 34

Popular program

growth continues

Career, technical programs thriving at SRRHS

BY TOM FENTON | STAFF WRITER

he importance of schools working with business leaders, especially in elds such as manufacturing and other trades, is nearly impossible to overstate. Perhaps that is the reason about 75 educators, school administrators and business owners gathered for a meeting of the Central Minnesota Manufacturers Association Nov. 16 at St. Cloud Technical & Community College in St. Cloud. The purpose of the Career and Technical Education Jamboree was to help all interested parties work together on closing what remains a large gap of workers. “It’s great to see that local businesses take time out of their busy days to talk with people in the schools,” said Jake Masters, a technology education instructor at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School. “These people have so much on their plates, but they’re willing to come to a meeting in large numbers to hear what’s happening in the high schools, which is great.” A large portion of the meeting was devoted to SRRHS, which was recognized for its CTE program that had business owners nodding their heads in approval and wanting to know more.

SRRHS page 5

PHOTO BY TOM FENTON

Junior Isabelle Goebel works on a bench she designed and has built this semester in an industrial technology class Nov. 17 at Sauk Rapids-Rice School in Sauk Rapids. Goebel has taken several classes school’s Career and Technical Education program.

Benton County contingent makes $18.5 million bonding pitch Mayhew Lake Road project presented to Senate Capital Investment Committee BY TIM HENNAGIR | STAFF WRITER

Sen. Sandra Pappas, DFL-St. Paul, the committee’s chair, and Sens. John Benton County of cials presented a Jasinski, R-Faribault, and Jordan Ras$18.5 million bonding request when the musson, R-Fergus Falls, made brief Minnesota Senate’s Capital Investment comments during the bus tour stop, Committee rolled into town Nov. 9. which also included presentations by Committee members met at Sauk Rap- the city of Sauk Rapids. ids-Rice High School as part of the central “We’d like to ask you to keep your section of its 2023 bonding tour. presentation to 10 minutes,” Pappas The area visit included over 20 comsaid. “We are running behind schedule munities and nearly 40 proposed projects. with our bus tour.” County engineer Chris Byrd and Byrd said Benton County was recommissioners Steve Heinen and Jared questing $15 million for construction Gapinski presented the County State Aid and $3.5 million for the project. Highway 1 (Mayhew Lake Road NorthPHOTO BY TIM HENNAGIR Sen. Sandra Pappas, DFL-St. Paul, Capital Investment Committee chair, confers with east) capital bonding request in a swiftly Investment committee Sen. John Jasinski, R-Faribault, during a Nov. 9 capital bonding bus tour visit to Sauk moving presentation. page 3 Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. Members of the Minnesota Senate committee visited over 20 Central Minnesota communities to learn about projects.

PUBLIC NOTICES

The newspaper of today is the history of tomorrow.

• Mortgage Foreclosures - pg. 14 • Probate Notice - Tollefson - pg. 18 • Sauk Rapids-Rice School District Annual Budget Notice - pg. 14 • Sauk Rapids-Rice School Ad for Bids (2) - pg. 14 and 15 • City of Sauk Rapids Public Hearing - pg. 14 • Benton County Board of Commissioners Reg. Minutes, Nov. 7 - pg. 15 • City of Sauk Rapids Notice of Hearing on Improvement - pg. 15

OBITUARY Andrew R. Hovanes

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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2023 | Page 3

NEWS Investment committee

What’s H A P P E N I N G

Saturday, Nov. 25, 10:30-11:30 a.m. — Paws to Read. For ages 4 to 12. Certi ed therapy animals will be on hand to listen as you read a story. Great River Regional Library, 1300 W. St. Germain St., St. Cloud.

from front things,” Bergstrom said, referring to threat drills, tornado and severe weather and re drills. “But one of the things that we, the district, does not have the ability to x is Mayhew Lake Road.” Bergstrom said he is growing more concerned with traf c on the roadway as over 1,400 students attend Sauk Rapids-Rice High School. O’Driscoll said CSAH 1 is a highly used road in a growing residential area of Sauk Rapids. “We are seeing a lot of people bypassing Highway 10 and Highway 23 right now in St. Cloud (because of road construction) as well as Interstate 94 and using alternative routes in Benton County to get to lake country,” O’Driscoll said. “There’s only going to be an increase in traf c. This is a very worthy project.” Byrd and county commissioners recapped their bonding tour presentation during a Nov. 21 board meeting.

“We have not received previous capital investment money, but thanks to Rep. Tim O’Driscoll (District 13B R-Sartell) and Sen. Jeff R. Howe (District 13, R-Rockville) we had two bills authored last year,” Byrd said. The preliminary layout for Mayhew Lake Road Northeast was developed as part of a process involving Benton County, the city of Sauk Rapids, the St. Cloud Area Planning Organization and the Sauk Rapids-Rice School District as study partners. Eight intersections are in the 3-mile corridor project area; ve of those intersections have crash rates above critical. The current annual average daily traf c ranges from 3,300 vehicles to 5,800 vehicles. Future road corridor traf c could reach 33,000 vehicles per day. Gapinski, currently on leave as a Sauk Rapids Fire Department captain, addressed safety concerns. “Our goal with this project is putting roundabouts at all critical intersections or above-critical intersections,” he said. “We want to provide a safe pathway not only for our high school students, but our citizens and everyone who travels that road.” Heinen said a corridor study developed last year with the St. Cloud APO and the school district involved numerous town hall meetings. “We are proposing a four-lane roadway with a bike trail on the right side and a sidewalk on the left side,” Heinen said. “This project is going to have to move traf c.” Sauk Rapids-Rice District 47 superintendent Brad Bergstrom said school safety is an issue that keeps him awake at night. “We plan for a lot of

Monday, Nov. 27, 5:30 p.m. — Sauk Rapids-Rice School Board Work Session Meeting. Sauk Rapids-Rice High School, 1835 Osauka Road NE, Sauk Rapids. PHOTO BY TIM HENNAGIR

Benton County Commissioner Steve Heinen (from left) views a presentation slide during Commissioner Jared Gapinski’s remarks at a Nov. 9 Minnesota Senate Capital Investment Committee tour stop at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. The county presented its $18.5 million bonding request for Mayhew Lake Road.

“The tour visit went really well,” Gapinski said. “Potentially, I think we stand to be on track with this project.” In an email, county administrator Montgomery Headley said he greatly appreciated the Sauk Rapids-Rice Schools partnership and Bergstrom’s presentation. Byrd appreciated O’Driscoll providing comments. “We thought we would have 15 minutes, but we were only allowed 10 minutes,” he said. “The commissioners did a good

Senate Capital Investment Committee bonding basics Source: Minnesota Senate Staff Research

The 2024 Minnesota Legislative session will begin Feb. 12, 2024, and will likely end in mid or late May. The bonding process begins with an idea for a project presented by a local unit of government. Bonding tours traditionally occur every other year and take place during the late summer into the fall. They are scheduled well before the legislative session begins, so tours do not interfere with committee work. The House conducts its own tours of a selection of projects as well during the same time frame. The data and presentations given on statewide bonding tours inform members of the Senate Capital Investment Committee as they consider the funding proposals before them. The information is compiled for committee members who are unable to join the tour. All members work from the same knowledge base. A project is still eligible for consideration for bonding if it is not included on the bonding tour. If the committee does not visit a project on a bonding tour and the area’s state senator submits that project for consideration in the 2024 bonding bill, local officials are invited to the Capitol for a short presentation State funding via a bonding bill represents the

Sauk Rapids

last dollar in, so the rest of the project must be fully funded in order to be considered for bonding. Local officials often contact their legislators for advice. General guidelines dictate that the state will fund 50% or less of bonded project’s total project cost. If the request is larger, requesters can divide the project into phases in order request a smaller amount. When a request is ready and all other funding sources have been explored, the requester submits the project to Minnesota Management and Budget. That gives CIC members and staff access to project details. Local legislators are responsible for advocating for a project before the CIC during session. Once a bill has been introduced and the committee determines its merit for state funds, it is set aside (laid over) for inclusion in the omnibus bonding bill, which includes every project across the state set to receive state bonding funds that year. The omnibus bill must pass by a two-thirds majority in the Minnesota House first, and then the Senate. If it passes, the projects in the bill will receive the state bonding funds dictated in the bill. Project funds are distributed via reimbursement.

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Tuesday, Nov. 28, 10:15-10:45 a.m. or 11-11:30 a.m. — Fall Storytime. Stories, songs and fun geared toward ages 3-6, but all are welcome. Limit 20 children per session. Great River Regional Library, 1300 W. St. Germain St., St. Cloud. Check in at childrens help desk. Tuesday, Nov. 28, 12:30-1:30 p.m. — Exercise Tuesdays. Hosted by Helping Hands Outreach. Lions Building, 101 Fourth Ave. NW, Rice. Call 320-393-4467 for more information. Tuesday, Nov. 28, 6:30 p.m. — Sauk Rapids Women of Today Membership Meeting. VFW Post 6992, 901 N. Benton Drive, Sauk Rapids. Tuesday, Nov. 28, 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, Nov. 29, 1-3 p.m. — Cribbage Wednesdays. Hosted by Helping Hands Outreach. Lions Building, 101 Fourth Ave. NW, Rice. Wednesday, Nov. 29, 5 p.m. — Burger Nite and Meat Raf e. Hosted by the Sauk Rapids VFW Auxiliary and bene ting the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School dance team. Sauk Rapids VFW Post 6992, 901 N. Benton Drive, Sauk Rapids. Thursday, Nov. 30, 1-3 p.m. — Career Force. Job searching services include resume reviews, interest assessments, career exploration and other job assistance. Great River Regional Library, 1300 W. St. Germain St., St. Cloud. Thursday, Nov. 30, 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. Thursday, Nov. 30, 7-8 p.m. — Al-Anon Meeting. Help and hope for families and friends of alcoholics. Meets weekly. Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1911 Fourth Ave. N., Sauk Rapids. Saturday, Dec. 2, 10:30-11 a.m. — SCSU Saturday Storytime. St. Cloud State University education students present stories, songs and movement activities geared toward ages 3-6 but all are welcome. Great River Regional Library, 1300 W. St. Germain St., St. Cloud.

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Tuesday, Nov. 28, 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.

Sunday, Dec. 3, 3-8 p.m. — A Victorian Christmas. Musical performances, Santa, horse-drawn sleigh rides, bon re, refreshments and more. Proceeds bene t local charities. Sable Inn, 10631 Glen Street, Foley.

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job of getting the presentation done.” The Nov. 9 presentation was just the rst step in a many-step process, Byrd said in a follow-up email. “We are by no means guaranteed funding,” he said. “The Mayhew Lake Road project will need to go through the legislative process when the 2024 legislative session begins in February. Benton County may need to give the presentation again to Minnesota House and Senate committees this spring.”

Monday, Nov. 27, 6 p.m. — Sauk Rapids City Council Meeting. Sauk Rapids Government Center, 250 Summit Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.

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Page 4 | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2023 | SAUK RAPIDS DS HERALD

NEWS

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Love playing cribbage and want to meet like-minded enthusiasts. Bring your cribbage board and cards to partake in a morning of friendly competition and camaraderie. Light refreshments provided. Registration is free, but register in advance for each monthly class you are able to attend. Friday, Dec. 8, 9-11 a.m. — Sauk Rapids Government Center, 250 Summit Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.

se rt h u a t u s o u do y o yo s d e i n g e ate r t “Wh s t a h Jeff Haakonson, and w Sauk Rapids

“I start about a month before Christmas, and I try to spend the least amount possible. I check out Walmart and Target — the bargain stores.”

Craft Club Fridays This monthly gathering is designed for individuals aged 55 years and above who have a passion for crafting and want to connect with fellow craft enthusiasts. Bring any projects and supplies from home and share ideas, gain inspiration and foster new friendships. Light refreshments provided. Registration is free, but register in advance for each monthly class you are able to attend. Friday, Dec. 15, 9-11 a.m. — Sauk Rapids Government Center, 250 Summit Ave. N., Sauk Rapids.

Mike Moffett, St. Cloud “I don’t do a whole lot of holiday shopping; my wife does a lot of it. We’ll collaborate a little bit. She’ll get some of the ideas and so will I. She tends to check out where they are and what they are. She’ll run them by me. We’ll collaborate at the beginning, then she is on the hunt.”

C O M M U N I T Y S TA R S Gertgen earns top employee award from Mediacom

ST. PAUL — Minnesota Farmers Union honored the leaders of the House and Senate agriculture committees for their work during its Nov. 18 banquet in Minneapolis. Sen. Aric Putnam, of District 14, and Rep. Samantha Vang, of District 38B, both received Service to Agriculture awards at the 82nd annual Minnesota Farmers Union convention banquet. “Chair Putnam has shown that he understands the needs of Minnesota’s family farmers and rural communities,” said Minnesota Farmers Union (MFU) President Gary Wertish. “He has visited family farmers across the state, listened to their concerns, and advocated for policies that will expand economic opportunities for farmers and community members.” Together, the two chairs provided the leadership to establish a grain indemnity fund in Minnesota, invested in local and regional meat processing, expanded farm-to-school programs and funded rural broadband.

Cathy Anderson “I start around October. I look online and ask my family members to give me lists. I mostly just shop for my grandchildren and get lists from their parents because they are little.

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Judy Clare, Sauk Rapids “I start in October. I have young boys to buy for and I want to be the (best) gift giver, so I shop pretty carefully. I look mostly online to see what’s available and what they would want.”

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DES MOINES, IOWA — Mediacom Communications recognized Sauk Rapids resident Timothy Gertgen as an employee who achieved the company’s top performance rankings for outstanding customer service and excellence in broadband services. Gertgen was recognized as the System Technician of the Year at a recent ceremony held with corporate leaders. He is one of 21 employees nationwide to earn a regional-level award for exemplary service in 2023. Gertgen is a senior-level broadband specialist and has been a Mediacom employee since 2007. The company employs 4,000 people.

Karen Ellefson, Foley “I start holiday shopping as soon as last year is over. I check online generally. I like to check Thanksgiving ads in the newspaper; that is kind of a tradition.”

Janice Putnam “I shop online. I’ve actually started a little bit now. I just give money to my oldest grandkids. They have to buy their own to make it easy for me. My greatgranddaughter is easy; she likes anything.”

Jeanette Pallies “I start around September through November. I usually just go into stores and think about what my kids like right now and go for it. There is no strategy in particular; I just kind of wing it.”

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NEWS

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2023 | Page 5

OBITUARY

SRRHS from front

Sauk Rapids-Rice industrial technology student Allison Lundebrek paints the base of a coffee table project she has been working on this semester during a Nov. 17 class in Sauk Rapids. The class is one of many options the school offers in its Career and Technical Education program.

Andrew R. Hovanes

PHOTOS BY TOM FENTON

Jake Masters, a technology education instructor at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School, addresses a group of fellow educators, administrators and business owners at a Nov. 16 meeting of Central Minnesota Manufacturers Association at St. Cloud Technical & Community College in St. Cloud. At the meeting, SRRHS was recognized for the many opportunities it offers in Career and Technical Education.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 27, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Sauk Rapids for Andrew “Andy” R. Hovanes, 81 who passed away Nov. 19, 2023, at the St. Cloud Hospital. Visitation will be 3-7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 26, and one hour prior to Mass Monday all at the church in Sauk Rapids. The Rev. Thomas Knoblach will of ciate and burial will be at the parish cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home, Sauk Rapids. Andy was born Oct. 21, 1942, in St. Cloud to Andrew and Mary (Sufka) Hovanes. He was a lifelong resident of Sauk Rapids, a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Andy and his brothers, Jerry and Steve, owned and operated Andy’s Towing in St. Cloud until 2006, he belonged to the Minnesota Towing Association, Wisconsin and Iowa Towing Association, was a member of both TRAA and the St. Cloud Metro Lions club, and he was proud to be a member in the Towing Hall of Fame. Andy was also a member of the Sauk Rapids Fire Department, from 1963 to 2001. He held many positions there including, secretary, captain, second assistant chief, rst assistant chief and chief for 12 years. After he retired from the re department, he became a member of Engine Company No. 2.

Andrew R. Hovanes Andy is survived by his brothers, Jerry (Joyce) Hovanes of Sauk Rapids, Steve (Karen) Hovanes of Sartell; sisters, Susan Voit of Sauk Rapids and Joanie (Rodney) Determan of Prescott, Arizona. He is also survived by nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents. Memorials preferred to Sauk Rapids Fire Department Relief Assn. and Minnesota Lions Vision Foundation. Obituary, guest book and video tribute available online www.williamsdingmann.com. R-47-1B

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“It’s one of the only districts I can think of that we can say we are teaching what we like to teach, we know what we’re teaching and we’re good at it. We all specialize in these classes. I mean, I love it, and because of that I can relate that to the students.” In a recent cabinetry class, students at all corners of the industrial technology room were putting nishing touches on their projects with the end of the semester approaching. Junior Isabelle Goebel applied stain to a large and sturdy bench that will soon become a Christmas present. “I enjoy this class and all the tech classes a lot,” Goebel said. “This bench is the biggest project I’ve made. I enjoy the hands-on part of it. Being from Rice and living in the country, I can do these things in class and do a lot of practice at home, too.” This is the third class Goebel has taken from Masters, who marveled at her progress. “When Isabelle was in ninth grade, she was scared to use a saw,” Masters said. “I could not get her to use a saw. And now, it’s incredible what she designed with this bench. She put it together, talked about the fasteners, what she’s going to do to nish it and (how she’s going to make it special). That’s full circle and why you become a teacher. Those stories keep you going on such a positive level.” Nearly every student who passes through the SRRHS halls will be involved in a CTE class. With so many options, they are nearly impossible to avoid.

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www.lyonheating.com Senior Ian Eichers applies stain Nov. 17 to a flower bed he has been constructing in an industrial technology class at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. The class is one of many Career and Technical Education offered at the high school.

“We have an impressive course offering because you could honestly nd something for every student, which is really important,” Masters said. “I tell students you might love woods classes, but have you tried a metals class or robotics or an engineering? This is the time to try things before college to see if you really nd something that you like.” Some of the students are involved in classes such as industrial technology for fun and to potentially pick up a lifelong hobby. For others, taking advantage of abundant professional opportunities even before graduating is a possibility. Masters said SCTCC has a 100% job placement rate for those in the trade programs, some of whom get hired before schooling is complete. Another part of his job is helping foster the relationship between educators and business owners, which is why getting in front of them to talk about the SRRHS program carried such importance. “The (business owners) came to the meeting

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Ten CTE-certi ed teachers are involved with the program at SRRHS, instructing students in dozens of course offerings in the areas of family and consumer sciences, business and marketing, industrial technology and agriculture. Also presenting to the group were Mary Levinski, who leads the school’s award-winning culinary program, and Josh Bauer, who oversees the state’s largest — and also one of the most successful — DECA programs. “A common theme I took away from the meeting is that a lot of these businesses can’t nd anyone to ll open positions,” said Masters, who has previously taught at Apollo and Tech high schools. “I’m really happy that we were featured. We were really happy to be up there presenting because sometimes you just don’t realize how great this program is until you show it off.” Among the discussion topics from the SRRHS educators was the perception most students involved in industrial technology and other CTE-related courses struggle in more traditional class settings. Masters said this is no longer the case and that many of his classes, such as cabinetry, have waiting lists for enrollment. The ninth-grade woods, woods technology, cabinetry and construction technology classes includes about 320 students. Masters also is a contractor, and he daily counts his lucky stars he teaches something he loves. “Why I came to Sauk Rapids is because they have a really impressive program,” Masters said.

Page 6 | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2023 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

NEWS

Taking talent to the stage BY NATASHA BARBER | STAFF WRITER

Nearly 200 musicians took the stage Nov. 20 as the Sauk Rapids-Rice School District hosted its fall concert at the Performing Arts Center in Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. The eighth grade, varsity and concert bands performed 12 instrumentals from composers dating back to Mozart and as most recent as “Eureka,” composed by 25-year-old Katahj Copley. Community members lled the PAC to nearly standingroom-only capacity as the band members took stage. The SRRHS concert choir will perform in the PAC at 7 p.m. Monday, Nov. 27.

PHOTOS BY NATASHA BARBER

Freshmen trumpet players — Shaelyn Sjogren (from left), Isaac Thiele, Cameron Squires and Canden Carlson — perform with the varsity band Nov. 20 during the Sauk Rapids-Rice School District’s fall concert at the high school in Sauk Rapids. The varsity band played “The Great Locomotive Chase,” “Gently Touch the Sky,” “God Bless the U.S.A,” and “Joshua.”

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Isaac Miller is one of four percussionists that accompany the varsity band Nov. 20 in Sauk Rapids. Nearly 50 freshman and sophomore musicians contribute to that section of the high school band program.

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Sauk Rapids-Rice Middle School band members listen to the high school’s concert band Nov. 20 inside the Performing Arts Center at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. The concert concluded with “Feliz Navidad” as all students from the three band sections played together.

Jennie Planer, director of the Sauk Rapids-Rice Middle School band program, fixes and instrument while addressing the audience at the district’s fall concert Nov. 20 in Sauk Rapids. The eighth through 12th grade concert filled the Performing Arts Center to nearly standing-room-only capacity.

33RD ANNUAL CITY OF SAUK RAPIDS

Holiday Lights & Display Contest All city of Sauk Rapids residents are welcome to enter. Send name, address and contact information to the Sauk Rapids Herald office at 2 Second Ave S. Unit 135, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379 or natasha@saukherald.com with the subject line: Lighting Contest.

Please contact the Sauk Rapids Herald at 320-251-1971 with questions.

Entries are due by 5 p.m. Nov. 29. Properties judged between 5-9 p.m. Dec. 8-10. Entered addresses will be listed in the Sauk Rapids Herald

2nd Place $100 Cash Prize

1st Place

$200 Cash Prize

3rd Place $50 Cash Prize $5

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Judged on overall theme, lighting technique and creativity.

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TIMOTHY J. VOS Territory Manager 561 Railroad Avenue Albany, MN 56307 Ofﬁce: 320-845-2700 • Cell: 320-492-6987 Fax: 320-845-4805

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Forty years ago, a signi cant numthreat caused by arti cial intelligence, ber of Americans entered their Thanksand “Testament,” a quietly devastating giving week by viewing the then most PBS production that also played in thewatched made-for-television movie of aters. all time. “The Day After” received a large “The Day After” premiered Sunpromotional campaign prior to its broadday evening, Nov. 20, 1983, on ABCcast. TV to much fanfare. Commercials aired months in adFor the next few days, that shockvance. ABC distributed half a million ing and sobering broadcast was widely “viewer’s guides” that discussed nuclear discussed and debated. war. Discussion groups formed nationFROM THE The lm postulates a ctional war wide. DOGHOUSE between the NATO forces and the President Ronald Reagan watched BY TIM HENNAGIR Warsaw Pact over Germany. the lm more than a month before its The con ict rapidly escalated into screening on Columbus Day, Oct. 10, a full-scale nuclear exchange between the United 1983. States and the Soviet Union, a doomsday scenarHe wrote in his diary that the lm was “very io that’s worrisome today given the situation in effective” and that it changed his mind on the preUkraine. vailing policy on a nuclear war. The depiction of a nuclear strike and its efIn 1987, Reagan and Soviet Premier Mikhail fects on a group of people in Kansas was watched Gorbachev signed the Intermediate-Range Nucleby a record audience estimated at more than 100 ar Forces Treaty. million Americans. That effort resulted in the banning and reducWith a 46 rating and a 62% share of the view- tion of huge nuclear arsenals with the ability to ing audience during its initial broadcast, “The produce mind-numbing human overkill. Day After” was the seventh-highest-rated nonThankfully, four decades later, we’re still sports show until then, and in 2009, it set a record here, and the destruction of America on a scale as the highest-rated television lm in history. envisioned during “The Day After” hasn’t ocA “What if?” movie about nuclear annihilacurred. tion aired during a very different TV era. Better yet, talk around the holiday meal table I was nishing up my junior college studies in didn’t revolve around the unthinkable. the Twin Cities metro area and living at home. Nevertheless, our country still faces grave I can remember sitting with my mom and challenges. observing her reaction when the attack segment Politically, our country’s current leaders in occurred. She got up off the couch and left the Washington, D.C., show no ability to comproroom. mise. The movie carried only 12 minutes of comThat’s not good with a presidential election mercials and went ad-free the last 45 minutes on a rapidly closing horizon. when the bombs fell. Maybe it’s time for another wake-up call de“The Day After” not only served as a highlivered on a grand scale. water mark for the genre but almost surely conOtherwise, a year from now in early Novemtributed to hastening the end of the Cold War. ber, “The Day After” we could be experiencing The broadcast premiered the same year as the might be terrifying as a television “What if?” movies “WarGames,” which dealt with a nuclear from 40 years ago.

Page 10 | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2023 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

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NEWS CRIME & PUBLIC SAFETY Trial of former county attorney begins Nov. 27

Public asked to help solve illegal dumping

FOLEY — Following allegations of sexual conduct, Benton County’s former attorney, Philip Kent Miller, will be tried in court. A 10-day trial is scheduled to begin Monday, Nov. 27. Mille Lacs County courts are handling the case due to the con ict of interest. Miller was accused of two counts of felony second-degree criminal sexual conduct while he was serving in of ce in August 2021. He ful lled his most recent term from 2018-22 and did not seek reelection. According to an amended criminal complaint led in Benton County, Miller allegedly had inappropriate contact with a juvenile member of his household between March 2020 and September 2020. The St. Cloud Police Department was noti ed of the alleged crime Jan. 26, 2021. At least six people have received subpoenas for the case. When interviewed by law enforcement, Miller denied any sexual contact with the individual.

FOLEY — The Benton County Sheriff’s Of ce is seeking the public’s help in solving recent illegal dumpings. According to Sheriff Troy Heck, BCSO received reports of several tires dumped in road ditches on Oct. 20 and Nov. 15. The rst dumping took place along Town Hall Road Northeast near the intersection of County Road 3 and included about 25 tires. The second incident, which also included about 25 tires, was along 14th Avenue Northeast near the intersection of Mayhew Lake Road Northeast. Heck said a suspicious extended cab, short box silver Chevy Silverado — which as loaded to the top of the cab with tires — was observed along 10th Street Northeast and Mayhew Lake Road Northeast on or around Nov. 8. The truck is believed to be a 2003 to 2007 model and is said to have a yellow sticker in its rear window. Anyone with information about these crimes, the suspects or the suspicious vehicle is asked to call BCSO at 320-968-7201 or contact Tri-County Crime Stoppers at 800-2551301, www.tricountycrimestoppers.org.

POLICE ACTIVITY REPORT Sauk Rapids Police Department Nov. 6-12 Nov. 6, 7:37 p.m. — A caller from the 400 block of 18th Street Northwest reported nding a suspicious piece of candy in a child’s Halloween trick-or-treating bag. An of cer arrived and reviewed the candy, which did appear suspicious. The caller did not know what neighborhood the candy may have come from. The candy was destroyed. Nov. 10, 2:15 p.m. — A school district driver reported a male walking with what looked to be a ri e on the path near Mayhew Lake Road Northeast. Of cer located the individual at his home nearby and the weapon was con rmed to be a BB gun. The individual did not know the action would cause concern. Of cers educated the individual and reported their ndings to the school district. Nov. 12, 9:48 a.m. — A woman in what appeared to be a night gown was stopped on the zero block of Fourth Avenue South. The woman seemed confused and said she came from the hospital; a hospital band was observed on her wrist. Dispatch con rmed the woman was discharged from the hospital because she did not need medical assistance. The woman had refused to leave the hospital, so she was trespassed. The woman refused assistance from law enforcement and told police a relative was coming to get her. Incidents: Administrative citations (winter parking violations) 94, medical calls 24, miscellaneous calls 16, traf c stops 15, assists 12, suspicious activity reports 9, child calls 7, welfare checks 7, disturbances 6, police proactive visits 6, agency assists 5, fraud calls 5, extra patrols 4, human services reports 4, property calls 4, theft calls 4, 911 calls 3, assaults 2, civil complaints 2, domestic calls 3, harassment calls 3, driving calls 2, ordinance violations 2, parking calls 3, permits 2, tows 2, traf c hazards 2, trespassing calls 2 and unwanted persons 2.

ing male was stalking her by sending her repeated messages on social media and by text message, despite being told to refrain. The woman was advised how to apply for a harassment restraining order. Law enforcement contacted the male, who denied the allegations and gave law enforcement another account of the situation. Law enforcement advised the man top stop if he was repeatedly contacting the woman. Nov. 13, 11:57 a.m. — BNSF Railway employees located a large homeless encampment near the railroad tracks within the 700 block of North Benton Drive. Law enforcement checked the area and located bags of personal items and garbage scattered about. A portable sh house was on site, but no one was inside. BNSF was determining whether the encampment was on their property; law enforcement reported it appeared to be. Nov. 17, 11:13 p.m. — While on patrol, an of cer located a large mattress near the newly installed re pit in The Clearing complex. City staff was noti ed to clear the mattress from the area. Incidents: administrative citations (winter parking violations) 81, medical calls 22, traf c stops 15, child calls 13, miscellaneous calls 13, assists 9, suspicious activity reports 9, animal calls 8, welfare checks 8, missing person reports 6, permits 6, thefts 6, trespassing calls 6, police proactive visits 5, 911 calls 3, agency assists 3, alarms 3, disturbances 3, extra patrols 3, harassments calls 3, voided calls 3, civil complaints 2, domestic calls 2, dumping calls 2, fraud complaints 2, ordinance violations 2, traf c accidents 2 and traf c hazards 2.

Rice Police Department Nov. 13-19

Sauk Rapids Police Department Nov. 13-19

Nov. 19, 6:39 p.m. — A caller contacted a Rice police of cer’s personal cell phone to report a neighbor’s home on the 200 block of Second Avenue Southwest was egged while the people were on an afternoon walk. The caller provided surveillance photos of two suspect vehicles.

Nov. 13, 11:41 a.m. — Law enforcement responded to a harassment claim reported by a female on the 1400 block of Second Avenue North. The female said a neighbor-

Incidents: Traf c stops 8, miscellaneous calls 6, agency assist 3, parking calls 3, medical calls 2, car killed deer reports 2 and record checks 2.

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25,, 2023| Page 11

County moves ahead with human services department change and commissioner Employees receive letter explaining situation, SteveJohnson Heinen, who also currentcommissioners get director update ly serves as the human services proved and sent Nov. 21 to all human services employees. “I expect the county board Benton County is moving will take formal action on an enahead with a plan to separate pub- abling resolution in December,” lic health from its human services Johnson said in the letter. “There department. are many administrative details Commissioners discussed to work out over the next few the change and addressed public months.” health’s placement at a Nov. 14 Johnson said he was con dent committee of the whole meeting staff would accomplish the necesattended virtually by a large num- sary transition steps with minimal ber of human services department disruptions to employees. employees. County administrator MontThe board learned about pub- gomery Headley provided a hiring lic health legal issues from the update regarding two vacant adcounty attorney’s of ce and heard ministrative positions. from Jaclyn Lit n, community Robert Cornelius, former health administrator, and Sandi human services director, and JoShoberg, human services deputy hanna Mattson, former human director. resources director, submitted resThe Benton County Board ignation letters in mid-October. will adopt a resolution and serve Cornelius submitted a letter a 90-day notice with the state to Oct. 18; his last day of employcreate a new community health ment was Nov. 3. board. Mattson submitted her resigThe county’s ve commisnation letter Oct. 20; her nal day sioners will serve as the new of work is Dec. 1. board. The current human services “We had to have the discusboard will be abolished. sion about public health before A new community health this matter could go forward,” administrator and public health Headley said, referring to the director will become a board apboard’s discussion of a human pointment. services director succession plan. Organizationally, the position “That issue has been resolved. would join the county manageTo me, it looks like we will be ment team as a fellow department recruiting for a social services dihead. rector. We will have to make some The Nov. 14 meeting prompt- revisions to the job description. ed a letter written by board chair We need to set forth a recruitment Scott Johnson that was board-ap- process.” BY TIM HENNAGIR STAFF WRITER

board chair, will serve on a selection committee for the position. During discussion, Headley asked commissioners if they were open to using an employee forum during candidate recruitment to make the process transparent. “That’s pretty typical in governmental recruitments,” Headley said. “This might be a nice time to take a fresh start and get a little more involvement from employees.” Commissioners Jared Gapinski and Ed Popp expressed doubts about using the employee forum approach suggested by Headley. Gapinski was concerned about fallout if a staff-favored candidate was not selected by the county board. Popp was concerned about the potential of negative social media comments being posted about a particular candidate. “This decision is yours,” Headley told the board. “I just wanted to toss the employee forum out as an idea. This is an opportunity for additional input and employee engagement in this process. If you want to have an employee forum, you could de nitely establish the guidelines and expectations beforehand.” Regarding the human resources position, Headley said 13 people had submitted applications. The position has been posted for three to four weeks, with the application period scheduled to close Dec. 1.

NEWS BRIEFS St. Cloud bridge to close for repairs ST. CLOUD — A St. Cloud bridge will close for lengthy repairs Monday, Nov. 27. Motorists that travel across a Sauk River bridge No. 6819 on County Road 75 near 28th Avenue South in Waite Park are urged to nd alternate routes to minimize travel delays. Lunda Construction Company, of Black River Falls, will be removing and replacing the bridge, which is near Woods Farmers Seed & Nursery and Modern Barnyard. Construction is expected to last through June 2024. A complete road closure will be conducted with a detour posted that can be found at www. stearnscountymn.gov/1717/CSAH-75-Bridge-Replacement. Motorists will be re-routed to use the bridge on Veterans Drive near the Municipal Athletic Complex. The contractor for this work is Lunda Construction Company from Black River Falls, Wisconsin. Questions or concerns may be directed to the Stearns County Highway Department.

Opportunities to help food shelves, older adults. ST. CLOUD — Stearns Bank N.A. in partnership with the Central Minnesota Community Foundation has announced the Stearns Bank Community Challenge. The nancial institution is offering up to $100,000 as a match for every dollar donated to three area food shelves — Catholic Charities, St. Cloud Salvation Army and St. Joseph Community Food Shelf — this holiday season. Donations for the challenge must be received by Dec. 31. Contributions should be sent directly to the eligible food shelves to the attention of the “Stearns Bank Community Challenge.” Holiday senior trees are available now through Dec. 12 for this year’s Be a Santa to a Senior campaign in St. Cloud. Each tree will be decorated with ornaments featuring seniors’ rst names and their desired gifts. Typically, the gifts ful lled through the program are not luxury items but more likely necessities (blankets, toiletries, slippers, stationery and postage stamps, etc.) Program coordinators are hoping to collect gifts for more than 500 area seniors. This is the program’s fth year in the area. The program — created by Home Instead Senior Care — is simple and supports seniors who may otherwise feel isolated or lonely during the holiday season. To participate, shoppers can look for a Be a Santa to a Senior tree at the Lunds & Byerly’s in St. Cloud. Ornaments featuring the name and desired gift of an older adult will be on display, and shoppers can buy the requested gift and return it in a gift bag to the location with the ornament attached. The gifts will be delivered to older adults in time for the holidays.

Designs for next state ag, seal narrowed ST. PAUL — The State Emblems Redesign Commission has selected six designs as the basis for the next Minnesota state ag and ve designs as the basis for the next state seal. The designs may be modi ed, including changes to shapes and colors. Minnesota state ag nalists are F29, F944, F1154, F1435, F1953 and F2100. They can be viewed at serc.mnhs.org/ ags. Minnesota state seal nalists are S2, S6, S27, S147 and S224. They can be viewed at serc.mnhs. org/seals. The State Emblems Redesign Commission website will be updated shortly to collect input from Minnesotans. The nal designs will be made into ags and printed images of seals. The Commission will select the nal designs next month. The State Emblems Redesign Commission was established in the 2023 legislative session to develop and adopt a new design for the of cial state seal and a new design for the of cial state ag no later than Jan. 1, 2024. Designers of the nal entries must be contacted prior to releasing their names. Due to the holiday, this process will not take place until next week. As outlined in state legislation, the Minnesota Historical Society is providing administrative support to the State Emblems Redesign Commission.

Page 12 | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2023 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD we treat people like people. because, they’re people.

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2023 | Page 13

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Page 14 | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2023 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD SECTION 00 11 13 ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Sauk Rapids-Rice High School Theatrical Lighting Upgrades 1835 Osauka Road Northeast Sauk Rapids, Minnesota 56379 Independent School District #47 will receive single prime sealed bids for Sauk Rapids-Rice High School Theatrical Lighting Upgrades until 2:00 PM local time on December 19, 2023 at the Sauk Rapids-Rice Schools District Of ce, 1833 Osauka Road Northeast, Sauk Rapids, Minnesota 56379, at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. Bidding documents, including the Proposal Form, Drawings and Speci cations, will be on le at the Minnesota Builders Exchange; McGraw Hill Construction/Dodge Plan Center; Reed Construction; iSqFt Plan Room (St. Paul, MN), The Blue Book Building and Construction Network; and from PlanWell at: https://customer.e-arc.com/arcEOC/Pwell_Project_Main.asp?pub=63-2-14030 American Reprographics Company, 4730 Park Glen Road, St. Louis Park, Minnesota 55416 (952) 697-8800, facsimile (952) 697-8803 will provide complete downloadable sets of the Bidding Documents to prospective bidders and subcontractors. The downloads will be available on or about November 17, 2023. A deposit check in the amount of $25 made out to ARC for each set downloaded via the internet at https://www.e-arc.com/location/st-louis-park/ and clicking on the PlanWell icon, then the Public Plan Room icon, select Sauk Rapids-Rice High School Theatrical Lighting Upgrades. Make proposals on the bid forms supplied in the Project Manual. No oral, telegraphic or telephonic proposals or modi cations will be considered. Submit with each bid, a certi ed check or acceptable bidder’s bond payable to Independent School District #47 in an amount equal to ve percent (5%) of the total bid. The successful bidder will be required to furnish satisfactory Labor and Material Payment Bond, and Performance Bond. Bids may not be withdrawn within forty ve (45) days after the scheduled time of opening bids, without the consent of the Owner. The Owner reserves the right to accept any bid or to reject any or all bids, or parts of such bids, and waive informalities or irregularities in bidding. A pre-bid walkthrough will be held on December 6, 2023 at 2:00 PM. Attendance is not mandatory but is highly encouraged. Attendees are to meet at Door #2 at 1833 Osauka Road Northeast, Sauk Rapids, Minnesota 56379. The Owner requires Substantial Completion of the project on or before August 16, 2024. Board of Education Independent School District #47 END OF SECTION 00 11 13 R-47-2B

PUBLIC NOTICES 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 mortgage: DATE OF MORTGAGE: September 9, 2011 MORTGAGOR: Thomas Kolbo, a single adult. M O RT G A G E E : Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Liberty Savings Bank its successors and assigns. DATE AND PLACE OF RECORDING: Recorded September 21, 2011 Benton County Recorder, Document No. 383861. ASSIGNMENTS OF MORTGAGE: Assigned to: JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association. Dated December 17, 2015 Recorded December 23, 2015, as Document No. A413639. And thereafter assigned to: Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC. Dated October 9, 2019 Recorded October 15, 2019, as Document No. A438849. TRANSACTION AGENT: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. TRANSACTION AGENT’S MORTGAGE I D E N T I F I C AT I O N NUMBER ON MORTGAGE:

1003624-1045299240-8 LENDER OR BROKER AND MORTGAGE ORIGINATOR STATED ON MORTGAGE: Liberty Savings Bank RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE SERVICER: LoanCare, LLC M O R T G A G E D PROPERTY ADDRESS: 909 7th Street Northeast, Rice, MN 56367 TAX PARCEL I.D. #: 150066600 LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY: Lot 16, Block 2, Fox Meadows, Benton County, Minnesota. COUNTY IN WHICH PROPERTY IS LOCATED: Benton ORIGINAL PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF MORTGAGE: $161,658.00 AMOUNT DUE AND CLAIMED TO BE DUE AS OF DATE OF NOTICE, INCLUDING TAXES, IF ANY, PAID BY MORTGAGEE: $125,602.93 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

CITY OF SAUK RAPIDS PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE City of Sauk Rapids City Council will meet on December 11, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible, at the Sauk Rapids Government Center, 250 Summit Avenue North to consider the following matters that require a public hearing. APPLICANT Patrick and Victoria Welty PURPOSE To consider a variance that would allow a single-story

said mortgage, the above described property will be sold by the Sheriff of said county as follows: DATE AND TIME OF SALE: January 11, 2024 at 10:00 AM 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 July 11, 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. M O RT G A G O R ( S ) RELEASED FROM FINANCIAL OBLIGATION

ON MORTGAGE: None “THE TIME ALLOWED BY LAW FOR REDEMPTION BY THE MORTGAGOR, THE MORTGAGOR’S P E R S O N A L R E P R E S E N TAT I V E S 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: November 2, 2023 Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC 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 100 - 23-005956 FC IN THE EVENT REQUIRED BY FEDERAL LAW: THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. R-45-6B

building to be constructed on a corner lot rather than a two story as required in the Historic Downtown Ordinance. Any person desiring to comment on these matters is invited to do so in writing or orally at the time of the public hearing. Any questions should be directed to Todd Schultz at the Sauk Rapids Government Center at (320) 258-5315 during normal business hours. Published in the Sauk Rapids Herald on Saturday, November 25, 2023. R-47-1B

PUBLIC NOTICES BENTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2023 The Benton County Board of Commissioners met in regular session on November 7, 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. Motion by Gapinski and seconded by Heinen to approve the agenda as written. Motion carried unanimously. Under Open Forum, Tina Helmin of 11760 Highway 25 North, Foley, MN 56329, on behalf of Helmin Construction, LLC stated that they are looking to grow their business and shared concerns regarding the placement of a new digital vertical billboard sign on the property of Helmin Construction, LLC. As of now, they have a billboard, but would like to replace it with a digital vertical billboard which would be more cost effective and able to advertise for 20 local businesses in the area. As of now, the rules for the placement of the digital vertical billboard would be set 50 feet back from the road right-of-way and would not be easily seen from Highway 10. This would not be bene cial to Helmin Construction, LLC. Ms. Helmin is asking to be informed on any updates on placement of the new digital vertical billboard. Johnson asked to give the County Board time to talk with staff, and that a staff member will provide Ms. Helmin with an update. Schlangen requested to pull Consent Agenda item # 6. Motion by Popp and seconded by Gapinski to approve Consent Agenda items 1 – 5; 7 - 10: 1) approve the Regular Board Meeting Minutes of October 17, 2023 and authorize the Chair to sign; 2) approve the Special Meeting Minutes of October 20, 2023 and authorize the Chair to sign; 3) approve the Committee of the Whole Meeting Minutes of October 3, 2023 and authorize the Chair to sign; 4) approve the Resolution amending the Sheriff’s 2023 Capital Equipment Budget and authorize the Chair to sign; 5) approve the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Special Assessment; 7) approve the 2024 & 2025 Natural Resources Block Grant Agreement and Payment and an amended agreement with Benton SWCD to administer the SSTS Low-Income Fix Up Grant Program on behalf of Benton County and authorize the Chair to sign; 8) approve the Resolution to vacate control of access on A and G Addition Plat and authorize the Chair to sign; 9) approve a Resolution to accept a donation from Bill’s Superette and authorize the Chair to sign; 10) approve the expenditure plan for Public Safety Aid Funding. Motion carried unanimously. Next, Schlangen requested clari cation on Consent Agenda item #6 in regarding the 10% increase for the next 10 years. County Assessor Brian Folden stated that this increase has already been budgeted for and made sure there was a ceiling put into the contract to ensure that there would not be any unexpected cost increase going forward. Folden believes the price will be lower but budgeted for “worst case scenario”. Folden noted that this cost is only for the conversion of our Tax & CAMA system from Avenu to Tyler. Motion by Schlangen and seconded by Popp to approve Consent Agenda item #6 to approve the rati cation statements for both Avenu Tax & CAMA for 2024. Motion carried unanimously. Next, Mary Ostby of the Historical Society provided information regarding the 1902 Courthouse building in Foley. Ms. Ostby stated that the building is not registered as a historical building because so many modi cations have been made that it does not qualify. Ms. Ostby noted that the original bell tower was taken down due to water issues, the basement was modi ed due to water issues, and many ADA alterations were made to the building to make it handicap accessible. This item was for informational purposes only. Next, Adam Gracia of NextEra Energy provided an update on the Benton Solar Project. This item was for informational purposes only. Next, Land Services Director Roxanne Achman provided an update on the Eagle View Commons community septic upgrade/replacement and on properties re nancing. The contractor will be submitting the septic design to the MPCA around November 15th. The MPCA can take up to six months to review and approve plans. The HOA is anticipating construction to begin around April 2024. Now that the lien agreements are recorded against the properties, we have received calls from banks asking to pay off the loan or to subordinate the loan. Banks require liens to be paid off prior to re nancing, taking out a second mortgage or taking out a home equity loan. The Auditor-Treasurer’s of ce has set up an account to accept the prepayments for the septic system. We’ve had to draft new agreements for these parcels to release them from the lien and then to re-commit them to repayment if the prepayment does not cover the cost of the project. We’ve had a bank ask about subordinating the County’s agreement to the mortgage. This would require the County to sign an agreement stating that the loan between the property owner and the County is second after the new mortgage. There is risk in subordinating the County’s loan in the event of a foreclosure. The County may struggle to receive payment on the loan. There was a consensus of the County Board that they are not interested in a subordination agreement. The Regular County Board meeting was recessed at 9:46 AM to conduct a Human Services Board Meeting. The Regular Board meeting reconvened at 9:50 AM. Next, County Administrator Montgomery Headley requested the County Board to appoint a Board Representative to the St. Cloud Regional Homeless Task Force. Motion by Gapinski and seconded by Popp to appoint Social Services Supervisor Nikki Knowles as the representative to the St. Cloud Regional Homeless Task Force, and to have Heinen as an alternate. Motion carried unanimously. Gapinski suggested that Benton County have another member on the Homeless Task Force. Next, Headley requested to appoint a member to the St. Cloud Regional Airport Authority. There needs to be more

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2023| Page 15

discussion between Heinen and Popp on this, and there was consensus of the County Board to table this until the next Regular Board Meeting. Next, Headley shared the County Administrator’s Report. Headley reported that he submitted two Association of Minnesota Counties (AMC) award applications for achievement for the County’s efforts with the Rural Broadband Project and the County’s Tobacco Ordinance. The results will be announced at a later date. Next, Veteran’s Service Of cer George Fiedler presented information on the Resolution Supporting Operation Green Light for Veterans. The green light supports all who have served our country. Many organizations are in support of this, as well as all of the Counties in Minnesota. Motion by Johnson and seconded by Heinen to approve the Resolution Supporting Operation Green Light for Veterans. Motion carried unanimously. Next, was the discussion on Human Services succession planning. The County Board still has a lot to discuss on the structure of Human Services and if Public Health will be a separate entity from Human Services, and this will have signi cant bearing on the Human Services Director recruitment. Headley suggested to table this discussion. There was a consensus of the County Board to table this topic until a future Regular Board Meeting. Next, County Engineer Chris Byrd requested the County Board to consider an application for easement across state lands. The CSAH 7 project slated for reconstruction, will expand the width of the right-of- way. This includes lands owned by the State of Minnesota and designated as the Bible Duck Slough WMA. To acquire an easement to construct our road in this area, an application to the state needs to be made with an accompanying resolution adopted by the Board. Highway Department staff will complete the application and submit with the resolution to the State. There is a $2,000 application fee. We have appraised the value of the easement, and we have also valued other parcels within the project limits. The appraised value of parcels was determined to be $2,187.00. Byrd stated that federal money cannot be used in this situation to obtain the right-of-way. Heinen stated that we need to come to an agreement with the DNR of what this parcel is worth and get more information on this before the Board Chair signs the Resolution. Byrd stated that the State will not consider the easement until they receive the application fee and recommends before approving any additional fees, to bring those fees back to the County Board for consideration. Motion by Gapinski and seconded by Popp to approve the application for easement across state lands and if there are any additional fees, that will be brought back to the County Board for consideration. Motion carried unanimously. Next, Byrd requested approval of the Professional Services Agreement with Stonebrooke Engineering for nal design of CSAH 29 and CSAH 1 roundabout. This was discussed at the October 17, 2023 Regular Board Meeting and there was a consensus of the County Board to enter into contract negotiations with Stonebrooke Engineering. Schlangen noted on page 5 of the contract to change where it says 30 days of receipt of invoice to say 35 days to receipt of invoice. Senior Assistant County Attorney Michelle Meyer stated the contract will be updated to say 35 days to receipt of invoice. Motion by Heinen and seconded by Popp to approve the Professional Services Agreement with Stonebrooke Engineering with the noted changes for nal design of CSAH 29 and CSAH 1 roundabout. Motion carried unanimously. Next, Byrd requested the County Board to consider the IIJA Technical Assistance Grant. In September, MNDOT opened a grant solicitation speci cally for local governments. The grant is to help pay for costs associated with applying for federal transportation grants. The grant funding is state money made available in the 2023 Minnesota Legislative session. Max award amount is $30,000. Benton County was successful in receiving one of those grants in the amount of $29,916. We will use WSB Consultants to apply for a RAISE grant for the Mayhew Lake Road project. Since the grant is funded with State money, an agreement between MNDOT and Benton County needs to be executed. Expediency is needed so that WSB can start to work immediately on the RAISE grant application. Motion by Gapinski and seconded by Heinen to approve MNDOT agreement No. 1055061 and adopt the resolution to accompany this agreement. Motion carried unanimously. Next, because of the timing of the Ditch Authority and Committee of the Whole Meetings, Board members did not report on recent meetings they attended on behalf of Benton County. There were no additional comments under “Comments by Commissioners”. Popp/Heinen to set the Committee of the Whole Meetings: Tuesday, November 7, 2023 Highway Department Concerns and Space Needs Discussion with GLT Architects, Benton County Boardroom, Foley, MN, 10:30 AM or upon completion of Ditch Authority Meeting; Tuesday, November 7, 2023, Special Meeting of Township Board Members from Watab, Langola and Minden Township to update Rural Property Junk Laws, Watab Township, 660 75th Street NW, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379, 1:00 PM; Tuesday, November 14, 2023 discussion on the direction of Public Health and proposed River Heights housing facility, Benton County Boardroom, Foley, MN, 9:00 AM; Minnesota Inter-County Association (MICA) 2024 Annual Legislative Forum, location to be determined in Winona County, 2:00 PM. Motion carried unanimously. Chair Johnson adjourned the Regular Board Meeting at 10:23 AM. Scott Johnson, Chair Benton County Board of Commissioners ATTEST: Montgomery Headley Benton County Administrator R-47-1B

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT 47 SAUK RAPIDS-RICE PUBLIC SCHOOLS CALL FOR BIDS 2024 RICE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL WINDOW AND EXTERIOR WALL REHABILITATION Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be received for the 2024 RICE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL WINDOW AND EXTERIOR WALL REHABILITATION by Independent School District 47, hereinafter called the Owner, at the District Of ce, Door 2 on the Second Floor located at 1833 Osauka Road NE, Sauk Rapids, Minnesota 56379 until 10:00 a.m., local time on Thursday, December 14, 2023, at which time and place bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. In general, the work consists of the removal of the existing masonry face brick, windows, masonry control joints, roof edge sheet metal, and associated materials, tuckpointing, and, masonry cleaning, and the installation of new masonry face brick, windows, thru-wall ashing, roof edge sheet metal and ashing, masonry mortar joints, and masonry control joint sealant as speci ed. It is the Owner’s intent to award each Bid Item for the project to one Contractor. The Responsible Contractor submitting the lowest responsive Bid Item is required to provide appropriate trade crews working within the District, fully equipped and staged, until completion of the Contract or as directed by the Owner’s Representative. Bidding Documents have been prepared by ZMD Engineered Solutions, LLC (ZMD), 28 – 2nd Street NW, Suite #100, Osseo, MN 55369 (telephone: 763-515-8733) and will be available on Monday, November 27, 2023, at 12:00 p.m. To order documents and view project information such as Drawings, Speci cation, plan holder list, prebid sign-in sheet, addenda and bid results, visit the Franz Reprographics web site at www.franzrepro.com and select the Plan Room option. Please login with your email address and password, or Register if this is your rst time in the Plan Room. Select the project from the list of public projects. Once you have selected the project, please review the Bid Package Information for ordering documents. To receive Electronic Downloads, Bid Addenda and Shipped Order Con rmations for this project, you must make the following email address a Safe Sender in your Outlook Email: info@ipdservices.com If you do not, your email server may block the receipt of these noti cations. These noti cations are sent from this email address, not from the email address of ZMD Engineered Solutions, LLC or Franz Reprographics. If you encounter problems, please contact Franz Reprographics by phone at 763-503-3401. Documents may also be reviewed at ZMD, and the Minnesota Builders Exchange. On Tuesday, December 5, 20232, at 11:00 a.m., a prebid conference will be held at Rice Elementary School, 200 NE 3rd Ave, Rice, MN 56367. Attendees shall meet at the main entrance door of the school. All interested bidders (Prime Contractors and Sub-Contractors) must submit with their bid the “Responsible Contractor Certi cate” as provided in the Bid Documents verifying compliance to Minnesota Statute 16C.285, Subd. 3. A Bid Bond or Certi ed Check for 5% of the maximum bid payable to Independent School District 47 is required as a guarantee that if the bid is accepted, the Bidder will execute and le the proposed contract and provide 100% Performance and Payment Bonds within ten (10) days after the award of the Contract. The Certi ed Check will be returned to the Bidder as soon as the Contract and Bonds are executed. If, after ten (10) days, the Bidder shall fail to execute said Contract and Bonds, the Certi ed Check or Bid Bond shall be forfeited to Independent School District 47, as liquidated damages. The Owner reserves the right to waive irregularities and to reject any and all bids. No bid may be withdrawn for a period of Sixty (60) days after the date set for the opening thereof. At the Owner’s discretion, liquidated damages in the amount of One Thousand Dollars ($1,000.00) per calendar day will be assessed against the Contract if the project is not completed on the dates indicated. This Advertisement for Bids is issued by the authority of Independent School District 47. -- END OF SECTION -R-47-2B

Notice of Hearing on Improvement TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: Notice is hereby given that the city council of Sauk Rapids will meet in the council chambers of the city hall at 6:10 p.m. on December 11, 2023, to consider the making of 2024 Overlay Improvement No. SAUKR 174658, an improvement on 4th Avenue North from 8th Street North to 18th Street North and Osauka Road Northeast from Mayhew Lake Road Northeast (CSAH 1) to Golden Spike Road Northeast (CSAH 3) by Full Depth Mill and Bituminous Overlay of the Street; a sidewalk extension along the west side of Mayhew Lake Road Northeast for approximately 140 feet south from Osauka Road Northeast; and storm water catch basin repairs on Park View Lane Northeast between Providence Place Northeast and Preserve Drive Northeast, pursuant to Minn. Stat. §§ 429.011 to 429.111. The area proposed to be assessed for such improvement is 4th Avenue North from 8th Street North to 18th Street North and Osauka Road Northeast from Mayhew Lake Road Northeast (CSAH 1) to Golden Spike Road Northeast (CSAH 3). The estimated cost of the improvement is $2,046,343. A reasonable estimate of the impact of the assessment will be available at the hearing. Such persons as desire to be heard with reference to the proposed improvement will be heard at this meeting. Ross Olson City Administrator Published in Sauk Rapids Herald on November 25, and December 2, 2023 R-47-2B

Page 16 | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2023 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

SPORTS

Successful career comes to close “I feel like I just got a little bit of a break from football because it hasn’t been that long since it ended, but so far sudden end to a program. so good,” Tretter said in BY TOM FENTON There also was a panSTAFF WRITER a phone interview. “Once demic sandwiched in be- it hits me that it’s over, it It has only been two tween some soul-search- might be a little bit difweeks, but the fact his ing defeats and emotion- ferent story, I guess.” college football career is al victories. Tretter set numerous over has not yet sunk in The memories are records during his standfor Braden Tretter. endless for Tretter, who out three-season run with The 2019 Sauk Rap- recently completed a suc- the Storm and remains ids-Rice High School cessful three-year career the leader in receptions graduate’s journey took as a wide receiver for and receiving yards him to three universities, Augsburg University in with 1,591. He was an including enduring the Minneapolis. All-Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference selection this season for the Auggies, catching 57 passes for 696 yards and nine touchdowns in helping his team to a second consecutive 6-4 season. For his career, he nished with 202 receptions for 2,484 yards and 26 touchdowns. He is sixth all-time in receiving Sunday, Nov. 26th at 11 AM yards and touchdowns Wednesday, Nov. 29th at 4 PM for Augsburg, which Sunday, Dec. 3rd at 11 AM went from a team many Wednesday, Dec. 6th at 4 PM conference opponents overlooked to a bigger ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES, HOUSEHOLD & DÉCOR, factor in Tretter’s nal PHOTO COURTESY KEVIN HEALY, AUGSBURG UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC MEDIA RELATIONS FURNITURE, TOOLS & OUTDOOR, YARD & GARDEN two seasons. Braden Tretter, a 2019 Sauk Rapids-Rice High School graduate, scores a touchdown NOW TAKING CONSIGNMENTS FOR ANNUAL JAN. 1ST ANTIQUE AUCTION “I learned so many in a Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference game against Hamline University THIS IS A PARTIAL LISTING. B.P. & MN tax applies. | See website for more. things from playing col- in St. Paul. Tretter finished his career at Augsburg sixth all-time in receiving yards and Keith Sharer Auction Service lege football, from the touchdowns. 320 -267-1963 • View at: www.midwestauctions.com/sharer hardships of being on losing teams to the highs teams and the day-to-day claimed mama’s boy, he bunch of great friends.” 3825 Shadowwood Dr. NE, Sauk Rapids, MN Directions: St. Cloud, E on Hwy 23, Left on 40th (Follow Signs) of being on winning wanted to stay close to putting in the work,” Tretter said his colhome so his mother, Jody lege career somewhat Tretter said. “It’s not Stangl, could attend most mirrored his experience an instant grati cation thing. We could probably games. He enrolled at St. at SRRHS. The proCloud State University, be here for hours if we gram was struggling went through everything but the program was cut a bit when he started after his redshirt freshthat I’ve taken away with the Storm, but the man season. from football.” football team saw steady Players on the SCSU improvement once head A glaring example of the progress the Auggies roster did not have much coach Phillip Klaphake’s made during Tretter’s ca- time to nd another systems and style started reer was their 33-31 loss home, and Tretter found to stick. his way to Northern State to St. John’s University Tretter said he would University in Aberdeen, this season. Two years never have been this sucSouth Dakota, where he ago, the Johnnies won cessful had he not played soaked up as much infor- for Klaphake. that matchup 50-0. mation as possible from “In my rst season, “Klaphake gets a we went from ‘hopefully assistant coach Isaac ton of credit and everyFruechte, who played at we can have a chance’ one can say nothing but to where we expected to the University of Minne- great words about what sota and spent time with compete every week,” he does, but I still don’t Tretter said. “The better the Detroit Lions and think it’s enough,” Tretteams just kind of pound- Minnesota Vikings. ter said. “He taught me The pandemic then ed us early on. But you not only things on the know, we started to win a hit, and Tretter realized eld but also about life. few more games, and by he did not feel at home in He’s a mentor and he my senior year we were Aberdeen. really knows his stuff. I competing with the best Former high school went into college feelteams. We weren’t the teammates Camdin Carl- ing like I was one of the laughingstock anymore.” son-Mathies and Marcus smartest players because Tretter’s road to Santillana were both at of what he taught me. Augsburg was far from Augsburg, and they were The game of football smooth. A self-proreunited before the 2021 we played wasn’t your season. normal high school foot“I reached out to ball. It was a lot more Augsburg right away advanced.” Albany Apartment because I wanted to be Next month, the next in Minneapolis,” Tretchapter in Tretter’s life ter said. “I’m a little bit begins as he will be a of a big city guy. I just full-time nancial ana2 bedroom • 1 Bath wanted the opportunity lyst with Northwestern $650/month, $100 deposit. to be in the big city, nd Mutual in the Twin CitNo Dogs. a job that kind of t my ies metro area. morals. I’m very proud Call for “I was kind of nerof that decision because vous for football to be availability, I have enjoyed the three done, but I’m really exLoreen seasons that I did get to cited for what is coming play at Augsburg with a 763-238-0616 next,” Tretter said.

SRR grad Tretter reflects on college experience

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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2023| Page 17

SPORTS

Busy fall for former Storm athletes Marcus Santillana

Jacob Schloe

Braden Tretter

Carter Kieke

Aaron Reichard

Dane Dingmann

Alex Harren

Dom Mathies

Carter Loesch

Bryce Lund

Jayce Walrath

Will White

Ethan Anderson

Travis Biery

Andrew Harren

Jack Klein

Mason Rudolph

Cooper Walder

Morgan Eggert

Lexi Helmin

Maggie Fernholz

Cooper Walder (SRRHS 2023), Northern State University, Aberdeen, South Dakota — Walder, son of Brandy Walder, is a freshman offensive lineman for the Huskies, wh0 nished 4-6. VOLLEYBALL Morgan Eggert (SRRHS 2023), College of St. the Johnnies, who nished 6-4. Parents are Steve and BY TOM FENTON | STAFF WRITER Benedict, St. Joseph — Eggert, daughter of Chad and Jill Harren. Marie Eggert, is a freshman outside hitter for the BlazDom Mathies (SRRHS 2022) Gustavus AdolFrom North Dakota and South Dakota to Wisers, who nished 17-10. Eggert was out this season phus College, St. Peter — Mathies, son of Mike and consin and all over Minnesota, former Sauk Rapafter suffering a foot injury in preseason practice. Traci Mathies, is a sophomore quarterback for the ids-Rice athletes were heavily represented in colleLexi Helmin (SRRHS 2023), Century College, Gusties, who nished 6-4. Mathies completed 6 of 8 giate fall sports, including 17 in football. White Bear Lake — Helmin, daughter of Blane passes, including 3-for-3 against St. Scholastica and Here is a roundup of the fall action: Helmin and Mary Voss, is a freshman middle hitter Buena Vista, for 48 yards. FOOTBALL for the Woodducks, who nished 29-5 and were runCarter Loesch (SRRHS 2022) University of Marcus Santillana (SRRHS Class of 2019) ners-up in the National Junior College Athletic AsMinnesota, Duluth — Loesch, son of Mark and Augsburg University, Minneapolis — Santillana, Stephanie Loesch, is a redshirt freshman for the Bull- sociation Division III Tournament. After winning its son of Billy and Krista Santillana, is a senior line rst three matches 3-0 in the tournament, Century lost dogs, who nished the regular season 9-2. Loesch backer for the Auggies, who nished 6-4. Santilla3-0 to Dallas College East eld in the title match Nov. recorded two tackles this season, including a sack na recorded eight solo tackles and ve assists this 11 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Helmin nished the season against Northern Michigan. season. In his career, he played in 26 games while d recording 30 solo tackles, 22 assists, ve tackles for with 323 kills and a .393 hitting percentage. She also Bryce Lund (SRRHS 2022) Southwest Min- loss and two quarterback sacks. had 21 solo blocks, 77 block assists and 45 digs. nesota State University, Marshall — Lund, son of d WOMEN’S SOCCER Travis and Stacy Lund, is a redshirt freshman wide Jacob Schloe (SRRHS 2019) Northern State Maggie Fernholz (2023), St. Cloud State Unireceiver for the Mustangs, who nished 2-9. University, Aberdeen, South Dakota — Schloe, versity, St. Cloud — Fernholz, daughter of Curt and Jayce Walrath (SRRHS 2022) University of son of Eric and Lorianne Schloe, is a senior offensive Keli Fernholz, is a sophomore goalkeeper for the HusMinnesota, Duluth — Walrath, son of Mike and lineman for the Huskies, who nished 5-6. Schloe kies, who won the NSIC regular-season title and lost Mandie Walrath, is a sophomore linebacker for the missed the 2023 season due to injury but plans to return for the 2024 campaign. Schloe played in all 11 Bulldogs, who nished the regular season 9-2. Walrath 2-0 to Bemidji State University in the NSIC Tournament semi nals. SCSU nished 14-5-2, losing 1-0 to recorded three tackles this season. games as a junior, earning Northern Sun IntercolleBemidji State in the rst round of the NCAA Division Will White (SRRHS 2022) Gustavus Adolphus giate Conference All-Conference second team honII Regional Tournament Nov. 17 in Emporia, Kansas. College, St. Peter — White, son of Jason and Dayna ors. Schloe played in all 11 games in 2021. White, is a sophomore linebacker for the Gusties, who Braden Tretter (SRRHS 2019) Augsburg nished 6-4. White recorded a tackle in 38-35 win University, Minneapolis — Tretter, son of Jody Stangl, is a senior wide receiver for the Auggies, who over St. John’s University Oct. 21. Ethan Anderson (SRRHS 2023) Concordia nished 6-4. This season, Tretter caught 57 passes College, Moorhead — Anderson, son of Jim and for 696 yards and nine touchdowns. He also had ve punt returns for 41 yards. For his career, Tretter Heather Anderson, is a freshman defensive back for the Cobbers, which nished 5-5. played in 31 games, catching 202 passes for 2,484 Travis Biery (SRRHS 2023) University of yards and 26 touchdowns. He is sixth all-time at Mary, Bismarck, North Dakota — Biery, son of Augsburg in receiving yards and touchdowns. Carter Kieke (SRRHS 2020) Minnesota State Dave and Tammy Biery, is a freshman linebacker for the Mauraders, which nished 2-8. He recorded three University, Moorhead — Kieke, son of David and tackles in an Oct. 14 game against University of MinJulie Kieke, is a junior offensive lineman for the nesota Duluth. Dragons, who nished 7-4. Kieke played in nine t games in 2022 and three games in 2023. Andrew Harren (SRRHS 2023) St. John’s University, Collegeville — Harren, son of Steve and Jill Aaron Reichard (SRRHS 2021) Gustavus Harren, is a freshman tight end for the Johnnies, who Adolphus College, St. Peter — Reichard, son of nished 8-2. Long Nguyen, Helen Nguyen, Robert Johnson and Jack Klein (SRRHS 2023) St. John’s UniverSheila Johnson, is a junior offensive lineman for the sity, Collegeville — Klein, son of Jeff and Nicole Gusties, who nished 6-4. Klein, is a freshman defensive back for the Johnnies, Dane Dingmann (SRRHS 2022) Gustavus who nished 8-2. Adolphus College, St. Peter — Dingmann, son of Mason Rudolph (SRRHS 2023), Central Lakes Rick and Lori Dingmann, is a sophomore offensive College, Brainerd — Rudolph, son of Nate and Gina lineman for the Gusties, who nished 6-4. Rudolph, is a freshman defensive back for the Raiders, Alex Harren (2022), St. John’s University, Collegeville – Harren is a sophomore linebacker for who nished 3-6.

SRR well-represented in college sports

SPORTS

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2023| Page 19

Sauk Rapids-Rice dance team members — Emme Sjogren, Campbell Arndt, Emma Foy, Quinn Arndt, Bella Stewart, McKayla Harms, Leah Ramirez and Kylie Freitag — high-kick their way through their routine at the Sartell Dance Invitational Nov. 18 in Sartell. This season, the Storm moved from Class AA to AAA for the section meet.

The Sauk Rapids-Rice dance team performs their kick routine at the Sartell Dance Invitational Nov. 18 at Sartell High School in Sartell. The first home performance for the Storm is set for Saturday, Dec. 9, at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids.

The Sauk Rapids-Rice High School dance team performs their kick routine before a large crowd at the Sartell Dance Invitational Nov. 18 in Sartell. The Storm opened their season with an invitational Nov. 17 at St. Cloud State University’s Halenbeck Hall.

Bella Stewart (front); (middle, from left), Campbell Arndt and Leah Ramirez; and (back) Macey Fitzpatrick — pause during their routine at the Sartell Dance Invitational Nov. 18 at Sartell High School in Sartell. The dancers were performing with the Just For Kix dance studio in this routine.

Sauk Rapids-Rice High School dancers Summer Gerads (from left), Jaida Burrows and Amaya IsaacsonPathak stay in sync during their kick routine at the Sartell Dance Invitational Nov. 18 in Sartell. There were 47 performances at the show.

Page 20 | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2023 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Football Contest SEATTLE VS. DALLAS

CONTEST RULES 1.

Anyone can enter except employees of this newspaper. Contest judges are the newspaper staff. Winners will be announced in next week’s Sauk Rapids Herald. Entries due at office by 12 p.m. on Wednesday. Sauk Rapids Herald 2 Second Ave. S., Suite 135, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379

2. 3. 4.

Grand Prize $200

ATLANTA VS. NY JETS

5. 6. 7. 8.

Prize will be mailed to the winner after their name is announced in this paper. Only one entry per person per week. Two entries per address per week. In case of a tie, a random drawing will be held. Contestants with the most season picks will win a grand prize of $200 cash.

ARIZONA VS. PITTSBURGH

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SPORTS

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2023| Page 21

Breezing into the win column in achieving his rst career NA3HL shutout. The rst-year netminder also added an assist on Granite City’s game-opening goal. It was the fourth consecutive win for Granite BY EVAN MICHEALSON | STAFF WRITER It was yet another balanced showing for Gran- City in Breezy Point. Through 19 games, the Lumberjacks have ite City, who saw each of its six goals come from a different skater. TJ Lepisto found the back of the overcome a short slump and emerged on the other It took only 15 seconds for the Granite City side as yet again one of the top teams in the diviLumberjacks to get on the scoreboard against the net off an assist from Sauk Rapids native Easton sion, armed with a 13-4-2 record. Their plus-35 Portner, Edan Cho returned to the goal column Minnesota Loons Nov. 18, and from there, the reigning NA3HL champions pushed the pace even for the third time this season at 8:57 in the second scoring differential is seventh-best in the 34-team period, and Joe Greniuk closed out Granite City’s league. further and completely took control of the West The Loons and Lumberjacks faced off again impressive goal-scoring day with a third-period Division rivalry matchup in a 6-0 win at Breezy Nov. 22. score. In total, 12 Lumberjacks recorded a point Point Hockey Center in Breezy Point. Granite City will host the Alexandria Blizin the winning effort. Ashton Ericksen was the tone-setter in this zard for another fun divisional bout at 7:30 p.m. The Lumberjacks were relentless in their one. The athletic forward tallied his sixth goal of Saturday, Nov. 25, at Sports Arena East in Sauk the season in the opening minute. It took only two pursuit of the puck, piling up 15 shots in the rst minutes for Granite City to notch another goal as before ramping up the pressure from there with 27 Rapids. MNL 0 0 0-0 second-period shots and 25 third-period shots. Parker Comstock continued the visiting team’s GCL 3 2 1-6 While Minnesota only mustered 12 shots in positive momentum with a goal at 2:22. Cole Sieben’s third goal of the campaign with the one-sided affair, those still required proper Lumberjacks page 24 attention, and Granite City goalie Anyon Bennett under ve minutes left gave the Lumberjacks a was up to the task, snagging every shot he faced 3-0 advantage after one period.

Lumberjacks topple Minnesota Loons

Champs

PHOTO SUBMITTED

The Sauk Rapids-Rice Youth Basketball Organization fifth grade green team — Devin Johnson (front, from left), Ben Ross, Jaxson Skalicky and William Jennings; (back, from left) Colten Rothstein, Wyatt Van De Walker, Brayden Shoenecker and Tyler Ramirez — clinch their trophies after earning first place in the 2023 Sauk Rapids Youth Basketball Tournament Nov. 18 in Sauk Rapids. The team won over Zimmerman (22-16), Sartell (28-14) and Monticello (25-5) to take the championship.

OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM

Weekly Winner of $25 cash

*Checks will be mailed within two weeks.

the winning team GAMES FOR WEEK #13 Write next to the business NAME _____________________

Due at office by Wed., Nov. 29 at 12 p.m. Insurance Avenues _____________________ Lincoln Depot ________________________ Murphy Chevrolet (Monte) ________________ G Will Liquors ________________________ Sauk Rapids Hardware Hank _______________ Dooley’s Petroleum _____________________ Sauk Rapids Liquor (Beer) _________________ Haller Realty _________________________

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Scan the QR code below to enter online!

Due to the Thanksgiving holiday, the Week 11 winner will be published in the December 2 issue.

Page 22 | SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2023 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Turnovers doom Vikings in Denver In each of their losses this season, the Minnesota Vikings have had more turnovers than their opponents. The Nov. 19 game in Denver was no different. The Vikings lost three turnovers, generated none and lost an eminently winnable 21SPORTS COLUMNIST 20 game to a mediocre BY ANDY THAYER Broncos team. Sometimes, even with Josh Dobbs under center, football isn’t rocket science. A awed team like the Vikings can’t give the ball away multiple times — especially deep in their own territory — and expect to win games. Sunday’s loss was reminiscent of their early-season losses against Tampa Bay and Philadelphia, where the Vikings lost one possession games due to -3 turnover differentials, and fans of this team had better hope that this was just a one-game lapse and not a reversion in form. While quarterback Dobbs generated multiple big gains and touchdowns by extending plays with his feet, he also showed glimpses of why multiple teams have considered him expendable over the past year. His fast-and-loose style cuts both ways; it allows him to make explosive plays, but it also sets him up to take massive hits, and it’s inevitably going to make him more turnover prone than a more disciplined signal caller like Kirk Cousins. In addition to Dobbs trying to freestyle and extend plays on his own, his presence also impacted the team’s play calling Sunday. The Vikings’ rst possession ended on a wild third-and-short play where tight end T.J. Hockenson took the snap and pitched to Dobbs on a modi ed sweep. Coach Kevin O’Connell went a little too deep into his bag on this one — Dobbs ended up getting annihilated by Broncos safety Kareem Jackson and lost a fumble on the Vikings 30 yard-line. Granted, the hit was later determined to be illegal, but this was a bad play call for multiple reasons. First, when a tight end is under center, the defense knows some sort of gadget play is coming. The Broncos defense was alert, and they swarmed Dobbs before he reached the line of scrimmage. Second, the Vikings have already lost their top quarterback for the season with an injury, and calling plays where Dobbs is exposed to potentially taking huge hits is extremely risky. Finally, the Broncos defense ranks dead-last in the NFL in rushing yards allowed per game (160!), and a traditional handoff to Ty Chandler or Alexander Mattison would have likely allowed the Vikings to gain a yard and move the chains in a manner that would have lessened the risks of turning the ball over and getting the quarterback killed. O’Connell has been sensational this year, but that speci c play was a horrible call. Before we go, I’d like to give the Vikings defense credit. They played extremely well in Denver, and despite the Broncos consistently getting the ball in plus territory due to Vikings turnovers, they kept Denver out of the end zone until the nal possession of the game. In my opinion, adding defensive coordinator Brian Flores was the single best move this team made last offseason. He’s crafted an unpredictable and effective defense while deploying essentially the same personnel that ranked 31st in the NFL in yards allowed per game last year. The team’s young secondary is developing quickly, Danielle Hunter is second in the league in sacks, and the Vikings would be nowhere near the playoff picture without Flores. The Vikings now face a critical Monday night showdown in Chicago before their bye week. The Bears showed signs of life last week, holding a late lead in Detroit before ultimately succumbing to the 8-2 Lions. Bears quarterback Justin Fields has returned from his thumb injury, and this won’t be an easy win for the Vikings despite Chicago’s lowly 3-8 record. Every game is going to be critical for the 6-5 Vikings moving forward, and the Vikings are going to need to take care of the football and eliminate turnovers if they want to escape with an important win in a hostile environment against a Bears team that is showing signs of life.

SPORTS

Taking home trophies

PHOTO SUBMITTED

The Sauk Rapids-Rice Youth Basketball Organization seventh grade girls — Kinsley Czech (front, from left), Scarlett Bauer, Avi Hemiller, Maggie Maertens, Kenzington Wenger and Mya Bakke; (back, from left) Grace Henkemeyer, Eloise Wesenberg, Lola Gales, Mackenzie Sabin, Kelsey Swanson, Clara Felchle and Lola Kurtz — hold their trophies Nov. 19 after winning their host tournament in Sauk Rapids. The girls place first and went 3-0 against Big Lake, 9-4; Sartell, 16-14; and St. Cloud, 22-15.

Green takes gold PHOTO SUBMITTED

The Sauk Rapids-Rice Youth Basketball Organization fourth grade boys green team — Brody Walter, Kameron Peterson, Quinten Meade, Jayden Henkemeyer, Tate Frieler, Isaac Swain, Payton Lukach, Brooks Meyer, Porter Robish and Tyler Kardell — display their first-place trophies after the Sauk Rapids Youth Basketball Tournament Nov. 18 in Sauk Rapids. The team, which is led by head coach Jeremy Kardell and assistant coach Jarred Peterson, won three of four games and had the least amount of point scored against them.

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