Sauk Rapids Herald - September 18, 2021

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Saturday, September 18, 2021

Sunnie’s survival

Same Local Coverage Since 1854.

Vol. 167, No. 24

PHOTOS BY NATASHA BARBER

Sauk Rapids and Rice firefighters battle a fire from multiple angles at the former King’s Inn building in Watab Township Sept. 12. The fire is being investigated for arson.

Local woman walks in fight against cancer at Relay For Life event

BY ELLARRY PRENTICE STAFF WRITER

ST. CLOUD – Claudia “Sunnie” Richardson is a threetime cancer survivor.

On Saturday, Sept.

18, she walks to support those who are still ghting.

For the fth time since 2016, Richardson, who lives on the edge of Sauk Rapids in east St. Cloud, is participating in the survivor and caregiver walk at the Relay For Life of Central Minnesota event. This would have been her sixth year participating had last year’s event not been canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Saturday’s walk takes place around Lake Francis outside the Sartell Community Center in Sartell.

Richardson, who will be accompanied by her husband, Wayne, is not sure she can walk the full course, but she’ll bring a wheelchair for Wayne to push her in if needed.

investigated investigaatted ffor or aarson rson Building is total loss after Sept. 12 fire

BY NATASHA BARBER | STAFF WRITER

RICE – As traf c stalled and water tankers ran relays along Highway 10 Sept.

12, nearly 25 re ghters worked to put out the ames that had consumed the former King’s Inn building in Watab Township.

In the end, the building was destroyed.

The re is being investigated as a suspicious re or arson by the Sauk Rapids Fire Department, the Benton County Sheriff’s Of ce and the state re marshal. Sauk Rapids Fire Chief Jason Fleming said up to a $5,000 reward is being offered for tips that lead to arrest. Those who have information about the re can call the sheriff’s of ce at 320-968-7201 or the arson hotline at 1-800723-2020.

The Sauk Rapids Fire Department was

dispatched to the scene shortly before 9:30 a.m. Sunday. Multiple passersby reported the burning building, and Fleming said when the re ghters reached the intersection of County Road 29 and Highway 15 in Sauk Rapids, they could see the smoke from the re. Knowing it was a con rmed re with multiple reports, Fleming called for mutual aid from the Rice and Sartell re departments.

Fire page 2

Parent calls schools’ COVID-19 plan ‘less safe’ District says protecting students, maintaining in-person learning are top priorities

Richardson page 3

BY ELLARRY PRENTICE STAFF WRITER

SAUK RAPIDS – Parent Sarah Petitto is concerned about the Sauk Rapids-Rice School District’s Safe Return to InPerson Learning Plan.

Designed to be ex-

ible and responsive to new information, the plan was implemented by the district this fall to mitigate the potential spread of COVID-19 and ensure school spaces remain safe and healthy.

Petitto said the plan is “less safe” in terms

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

of protection measures implemented last fall and almost an entire school was exposed to a positive COVID-19 case in early September.

Petitto shared with the Sauk Rapids Herald a close-contact noti cation from Rice Elemen-

OBITUARIES • Clarence H. Posch

tary School, sent to her via email Sept. 10. The message said the close-contact noti cation applied to all students in grades 1-5 who had been in the same room, but not within 6 feet, with a person who tested positive for the coronavirus.

That type of exposure falls under the second of two tiers the district is using to classify the close-contact noti cations it sends to parents and guardians.

Second-tier noti cations are sent to parents and guardians if their child was in the same room as a person who tested positive. First-tier noti cations are sent to parents and guardians if their child was within 6 feet of someone who tested positive for COVID-19, and the close contact lasted for more than 15 minutes.

School plan page 2

PUBLIC NOTICES • City of Rice Requesting Proposals - pg. 10 • City of Sauk Rapids Reg. Minutes, Aug. 23 - pg. 10 • Notice of Dissolution - pg. 10

NEWS

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021 | Page 3

What’s Happening

Richardson from front Wayne, who has walked with Richardson all ve years, has been a caregiver to his wife and other loved ones, including his late father, whose life was taken by cancer.

At the Relay For Life event, a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, the couple will release white balloons to remember those touched by cancer.

Richardson’s most recent cancer battle is ongoing. Though technically in remission, the cancer has a high recurrence rate, so it is being closely monitored. She has another scan Sept. 30 to determine the next steps.

In January, Richardson was diagnosed with a recurrent ovarian-related cancer. She was rst diagnosed with a similar form of ovarian-related cancer in 2018 but with treatment was able to beat it in 2019.

Years earlier, Richardson also battled triplenegative breast cancer.

Through it all, Richardson has clung to her faith, praying numerous times as she awaited test results and suffered harsh reactions to cancer treatments. She admitted she has had her days of doubt, but in the end, hope prevailed.

She shares that hope with others every chance she gets.

During her rst ovarian-related cancer battle, Richardson met a discouraged man in his 30s who was battling recurrent throat cancer.

“I said, ‘Just remember one thing, if that’s all you remember – God is still in the miracle business,’” she said.

The man smiled.

Through her last two cancer journeys, Richardson said she has been blessed to have Wayne by her side.

The couple married in 2017, happily blending their families of grown children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

“He is amazing,” she said of Wayne. “He watches out for me so much.”

A Relay For Life team

PHOTO BY ELLARRY PRENTICE

Claudia “Sunnie” Richardson shows off her pink Relay For Life hat Sept. 15 at her home while preparing for a Saturday, Sept. 18 survivor walk in Sartell. A three-time cancer survivor, Richardson has been participating in the Relay and fundraising for the American Cancer Society with her husband, Wayne, since 2016.

of two, the Richardsons had fun with their fundraising for the American Cancer Society this year.

They challenged each other that whoever raised the most money would be treated to a steak dinner by the other.

As of Sept. 15, Richardson said she was ahead by $65. She cannot wait for their special dinner and is sure Wayne would offer to pay either way.

Earlier this year, Richardson was not sure she would be able to participate if a Relay For Life event were to be held.

Her latest cancer battle has been the toughest of the three. Adverse reactions to chemotherapy drugs and diabetic medication led to her being hospitalized and living for months with no energy, unable to move from her lift chair most days.

“I was really, really sick,” she recalled. “I was so worn down.”

Richardson started chemotherapy sometime in January or February of this year. Unable to endure the harsh reactions any longer, she stopped chemotherapy treatment in July after tests showed it had worked to eradicate enough of the cancer to warrant a break and waitand-see approach.

“My body couldn’t take it anymore,” she said.

It took some time, but Richardson has regained enough energy to cook

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rst time around. But he said, ‘We’ll pray about it and we’ll go through it again.’”

Soon, Richardson will meet with her oncologist to determine if she will continue chemotherapy to prevent the ovarian-related cancer from returning, or an anticancer drug.

“Each time it comes back, it comes back with more of a vengeance, so they want to keep the numbers down as far as they can,” Richardson said.

Richardson, who is from Mankato, has made it her mission to educate women about the importance of getting regular Pap tests to screen for ovarian cancer and mammograms to screen for breast cancer.

She hopes to share her story in a book. Wayne currently writes about her journey on their CaringBridge webpage.

“I want to share it with other women so they can be aware,” she said.

Richardson has discovered a link between her cancers. Genetic testing revealed she has a mutated gene, and so does her daughter, who recently had reproductive organs removed to prevent getting cancer.

Having cancer has made Richardson a more compassionate person.

She recognizes that, like her, many people have hidden illnesses.

People from all over – even outside the country – are praying for Richardson, a former chaplain. If she ever thinks about giving up again, she said she is going to remember that and keep on ghting.

Saturday, Sept. 18, 8:30 a.m. – St. Cloud Diocese Annual Conference: The Year of St. Joseph. Sponsored by the St. Cloud Diocesan Council of Catholic Women. For more information, visit stcloudccw.org.

St. John’s Parish, 621 Dewey St., Foley.

Saturday, Sept. 18, 1-6 p.m. – Oktoberfest. Hosted by the Foley Quality of Life Task Force. Food, beverages, music and activities. Lions Park, 323 Oak Drive, Foley.

Monday, Sept. 20, 6 p.m. – Rice City Council Meeting. Rice City Hall, 205 E. Main St., Rice.

Tuesday, Sept. 21, 9 a.m. – Benton County Board of Commissioners Meeting. Benton County Administration Building, 531 Dewey St., Foley.

Tuesday, Sept. 21, 11 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, Sept. 21, 4-6 p.m. – Rice Area Farmers Market. Sponsored by the Rice Area Women of Today. At the corner of Division Street North and East Main Street, Rice.

Tuesday, Sept. 21, 6:30 p.m. – Little Rock Lake Association Meeting. Watab Town Hall, 660 75th St. N.W., Sauk Rapids.

Tuesday, Sept. 21, 7 p.m. – Free Grace Recovery Meeting. Hosted by Free Grace United. All are welcome; everyone struggles with something. The ROC, 141 Fourth Ave. N., Foley.

Thursday, Sept. 23, 3-6 p.m. – Sauk Rapids Market.

Coborn’s parking lot, 110 First St. S., Sauk Rapids.

Friday, Sept. 24, 11 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.

Saturday, Sept. 25, 6:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – Watab and Langola Townships Clean-Up Day. Pines Edge Grocery & Liquor parking lot, 1490 110th St. N.W., Rice. For more information, contact supervisor Bill Little at 218-282-6230 or call the town hall at 320240-2270.

Pulse on People

Students earn degrees

Saturday, Sept. 25, 8:30 a.m. to noon – A Walk Together-Uniting Against Sex Traf cking. Third annual awareness event and 3-mile walk bene tting the Central Minnesota Sexual Assault Center. Shear Dynamics Salon, 65 Third St., Waite Park. For more information, visit www.walktogethermn.org.

BEMIDJI – Three Sauk Rapids students have earned associate degrees from Northwest Technical College following spring semester.

Adina Harvey, Michael James Hines and Tina Smith all received degrees in nursing.

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and garden and do housework again.

“It’s just been a total turnaround,” she said.

In the past, Richardson’s cancers have also necessitated two surgeries, blood transfusions and radiation.

One of the most dif cult parts of her latest journey was having to be alone when she received the devastating news that she had cancer again. Due to restrictions precipitated by the pandemic, she had to meet with her oncologist alone.

“There I was, without Wayne for support,” she said.

She also struggled to break the news.

“My biggest concern was how was I going to tell him because he’d taken care of me the whole time I had (ovarian-related cancer) the

Saturday, Sept. 18, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. – Responding to Faith Abuse Seminar. With speaker Michelle Markgraf. The day will be split into two informational sessions – learning about abuse and its effects as well as learning how to help others and to address abuse. Open to the public. Lunch provided. Petra Lutheran Church, 1049 First Ave. N., Sauk Rapids. For more information, contact secretary@petralutheran. com or pastor@petralutheran.com.

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Page 4 | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

School plan from front

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Petitto noted that close contact at Rice Elementary School occurred just days after the entire student body started the new school year.

She said the district’s “lack of safety for students” has caused a “huge uptick” in students leaving the district.

“For a budgetstrapped district, how can they nancially justify literally watching these dollars walk out the door?”

Petitto said.

Petitto opposes the district’s August decision not to require face coverings.

“Optional masking is absolutely criminal, as not requiring masks goes against everything from the Centers for Disease Control (and Prevention), American (Academy of) Pediatrics, Minnesota Department of Health, CentraCare. You need to be wearing a mask inside, no matter your age and regardless of vaccination status,” Petitto said.

Petitto said most of the teachers at her child’s elementary school are not wearing masks, which goes against recommendations from the CDC. “We keep asking the school board and superintendent why they want to

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be reactive – they use the term responsive – instead of being proactive,” said Petitto, who is concerned about students sharing common spaces like the lunchroom and congregating without masks. “The lack of respect for science is appalling. There is no regard for public health.”

The health and safety of all students, staff and building occupants, along with maintaining an inperson learning model, remain the top priorities for District 47, Superintendent Bradley Bergstrom told the Sauk Rapids Herald Sept. 14.

As for masking, Bergstrom reiterated that the Safe Learning plan recommends face coverings, but they are not required. Staff and students who do not wear a face covering are not doing anything wrong by following a plan that says they are optional, he said, nor are they breaking the law. Public schools in Minnesota are not mandated by state or federal law to require masks.

Bergstrom stressed that the district continues to closely monitor internal and external COVID-19 data, which will dictate whether face coverings remain optional or become mandatory.

“If we need to move where we’re at with face coverings, absolutely we will do that,” he said.

While the district currently is not requiring students or staff to wear face coverings, those who work in and enter the health of ces will soon be required to mask. A new federal requirement takes effect Sept. 20.

Asked about the Safe

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Learning plan’s impact on enrollment, Bergstrom acknowledged that some families have told him they were leaving because of the plan; however, not all families who left the district did so for that reason.

As of Sept. 9, three days into the school year, total enrollment was down by 60 students from the same day a year ago. Enrollment is down at the elementary and high schools and up at the middle school, according to Bergstrom.

That does not mean 60 students left because of the Safe Learning Plan, Bergstrom noted. Some families, he said, actually expressed interest in enrolling their children at Sauk Rapids-Rice because of the district’s Safe Learning plan.

“Families move for a variety of different reasons. Not everybody has left because of (the Safe Learning Plan),” Bergstrom said.

Petitto also criticized the tier 1 and tier 2 noti cations.

“How come we’re treating both of these exposures the same way?” she asked.

Close contact noti cation, via tier 1 and tier 2, is designed to keep families informed, according to Bergstrom.

“It’s really about putting knowledge in parents’ and guardians’ hands,” he said.

The noti cation does not mean COVID-19 is spreading throughout the buildings.

“It’s still coming from the outside, much like last year,” said Bergstrom, who acknowledged that it remains likely a student can contract COVID-19 given the current high transmission rates in Benton County.

“I think it’s being misconstrued that we have all this spread happening, and it’s not,” Bergstrom said. “It’s coming into us.

What we’re watching and

NEWS

Nearly half of Minnesota students vaccinated The office of Gov. Tim Walz reported Sept. 13 that more than 46,000 students ages 12-17 had received their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine since the launch of the state’s “Vax to School” campaign.

A news release from Walz’s office said just under 55% of Minnesotans ages 12-15 had received their first dose, up more than 14% since late July.

For 16-17-year-olds, the rate increased from 54.2% to 60.5%.

According to Walz’s office, Minnesota is leading the Midwest in reported student vaccinations, and his administration continues to work to raise vaccination rates. monitoring for, just like last year, is, how are we doing with staf ng, and is there any (internal) spread that’s happening? If either of those things start to happen, then we make adjustments.”

Rather than enforcing quarantine or masks, the Safe Learning Plan is based on trust.

“Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools trusts that parents/guardians and staff will do what is best when it comes to the illness of their child(ren) and themselves,” stated a recent written communication from District 47. “Please monitor your student’s health and keep them at home if they are ill or symptomatic.”

The district is requiring students and staff who test positive for COVID-19 to stay home for 10 days and to be symptom free for 24 hours prior to returning to school.

Parents/guardians and staff must report all positive cases to their school health of ce. As required by the state, the district in turn must report all positive cases to the Minnesota Department of Health.

Families who receive a rst tier or second tier noti cation are not required to act but have the following options if they choose to keep their child home: – Return to school seven days after a negative COVID-19 test administered after day ve

and no symptoms.

– Return to school after 10 days and no symptoms – no testing required.

– Return to school after 14 days and no symptoms – no testing required.

– Return to school after receiving a negative test that is administered after day ve.

– Return to school wearing a face covering and monitor for symptoms.

Parents and guardians must notify their child’s school if they choose to quarantine after receiving First Tier or Second Tier close contact noti cation.

A notice from the district said school work will be gathered and distributed to students who quarantine. Absences will be excused.

If a student has a known exposure to the virus outside of school, the districts asks that they stay home and monitor for symptoms.

Petitto believes quarantining should not be optional. She called the quarantine guidance and plan as a whole confusing.

“If you end up with a COVID-positive test, you are to self-report in quarantine and follow those precautions.

However, if you’re Tier 1 or Tier 2 exposed, you follow the exact same precautions,” she said.

Petitto also criticized the guidance in terms of the number of days students should quarantine.

“You can get a test in ve days, you can quarantine for 10 days, or you can quarantine for 14 days. What’s the difference between the last two if you don’t need a COVID test either way?”

Petitto said.

Bergstrom said he understands some people may not like the plan; however, he feels the plan is acceptable because it makes face coverings optional for families who want that protection and recommends quarantine based on guidelines from the CDC and MDH, and because it can be changed at any time.

“If the data says we need to change our plan, we certainly will,” he said.

Petitto pushed the district to be transparent and present real and accurate data about how many students were exposed at tier 1 and tier 2 the rst week of school.

“We keep asking what are the metrics that they’re going to use to make COVID data-driven decisions,” she said.

The district recognizes that in-person learning still concerns some parents and that some families feel learning from home is best. Bergstrom said the district is currently developing an online learning program that is expected to be available for grades 6-12 next school year.

After surveying parents about the proposed learning option, which would differ from distance learning, the district did not have time to introduce the program this school year.

The district is working out the logistics of the online program this school year.

“It is our intent to have some online learning available for the fall 2022, but we are starting to look at it right now,” Bergstrom said.

An online program is also being considered for K-5 students.

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

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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021 | Page 5

NEWS/ OBITUARY

Beautiful beveled edges

t

t

r PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER

Ernie Wollak, president of the Benton County Historical Society and owner of Wollak Construction, leans against a granite column Sept. 14 at the Robinson-Stanton home in Sauk Rapids. As Wollak’s crew removed a portion of a wall, tthey uncovered an original, untouched exterior wall of granite-built house.

Wollak uncovers original, untouched granite quoins during home renovations t

BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER

SAUK RAPIDS – tWhen Ernie Wollak and his crew removed a portion of a wall at the granite home on Second Avenue South Sept. 13, they could not believe their teyes.

“Yesterday was a total shocker,” Wollak said in an interview Sept. 14.

Beneath the wall was fan original exterior wall of the Robinson-Stanton home.

“This has never been stuccoed. This is all original,” Wollak said.

The Robinson-Stanton house was built in 1873 with granite quarried from central Minrnesota. The Benton County Historical Society purchased the home in November 2019 and is working to preserve and restore the building for use as a museum and research center. Wollak, who is both the historical society president and a local contractor, submitted the lowest bid and was awarded the project in late August.

The exposed wall features a commanding entrance to a portion of the building from the existing garage. Large granite columns and original wood beams frame a doorway and beveled stone quoins, or masonry blocks at the corner of the building, are now visible.

When previous remodels occurred, a wall was

constructed around the original architecture, hiding the granite from the public’s view.

The volunteers and construction crew have also uncovered an original window opening, a wood box and chimney, and a built-in storage shelf, among other things.

“Every time we come here and work, we nd something else,” Wollak said. “It’s been fun. It’s been just amazing to tear

into a building like this with the history it has. …

I had to bid the project just like anyone else, and I am more than excited that we were awarded the project because of what we have found.”

Ostby, who is working with Wollak Construction and architect Katie Kangas of Pasque Architecture, is happy the team is willing to adapt as plans proceed. Bathrooms have had to be moved and other changes are likely to be made as more work is completed.

“Our architect laid out a plan, but then we’re having to work with the house as we nd things,” Ostby said.

Wollak agreed.

“You have to stop

and reassess everything and move on,” he said.

As history reveals itself, stakeholders in the project are left with more questions – which is only half the fun, Wollak said.

“What was here?”

Wollak said of the newlyfound opening. “It had to be a window or a doorway in here. There had to be some sort of a double gate opening here at one time.”

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 18, at Annunciation Catholic Church in Mayhew Lake for Clarence H. Posch, age 86, who passed away at his home in Rice Sept. 13, 2021. The Rev. Thomas Knoblach will of ciate and burial will be in the parish cemetery. Visitation was 4-8 p.m. Friday at Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Home in Sauk Rapids and one hour prior to the services Saturday at the church. Parish prayers were 7:30 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

Clarence was born May 10, 1935 in Little Falls to Henry and Olean (Boisvert) Posch. He grew up in Royalton and the cities, and has lived in Rice since 1969. Clarence was united in marriage to Audrey Pelkey May 29, 1961 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Little Falls. He was a federal food inspector for the United States Department of Agriculture for 34 years, retiring in 1988. Clarence owned and operated Ace Insulation for 25 years with his son, Greg. He was a member of Annunciation Catholic Church, a lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus, and the Royalton and Rice sportsmen’s clubs.

Clarence was an outdoorsman who enjoyed camping, deer hunting, cutting wood and gardening vegetables. He loved baseball and enjoyed watching the Minnesota Twins, St. Cloud Rox,

Clarence H. Posch

and the Willmar Stingers.

Clarence was a hard worker who was known for his jokes and funny personality. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. He will be truly missed by all who knew him.

Clarence is survived by his children, Debbie (Bob) Then of Rice, Brenda Regouski (Will Fallert) of Little Falls, Greg of Rice, Gary (Meredith) Posch of Sauk Rapids, Anita (Rob) Lindholm of St. Cloud, Leanne (Jason) Brown of Sauk Rapids; siblings, Leo (Bernice) Posch, Darlene Kruzel, Jerry (Carol) Posch, and Tim Posch; grandchildren, Amanda, Brianna, Mackenzie, Brady, Cullen, Madelyn, Ethan, Cooper, and Nora; and loving dog, Snuggles.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Audrey in 2019; and siblings, Linda Morrison, Rachael Wilkes, Mary Posch, Benny Posch, and Ralph Posch.

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Page 6 | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

Hostas: Amazing survivors One plant that has refused to die during our summer drought is the hosta. Some of the plants which were not watered regularly or much at all are now perking up. For a plant with a shallow root system, GREEN AND GROWING this is a pleasant surprise. Hostas are IN BENTON COUNTY herbaceous peren- BY LINDA G. TENNESON nials, meaning they die down in winter but come back in spring.

This plant, also known as the plantain lily, has eshy rhizome roots that grow just under the soil surface.

Hostas have been hybridized into a wide variety of leaf patterns and colors which range from a yellow-toned green to a dark forest or blue-toned green. Leaves may be solid or have wide or narrow bands of white or yellow on the edges. A few varieties reverse this pattern with the darker green in the outer band and a lighter green in the middle.

Leaf sizes range from miniature plants with leaves that are up to 3 inches long to giants that are 12 inches long and nearly as wide. The plants may be 6 inches high or as much as 2 feet in height. The leaves are attractive with veins that spread from the base in gentle arcs. The leaf shape ranges from small hearts to large cups, some with pronounced veins and others that are smoother. Blooms, which usually appear in July, are white or light purple. Some are fragrant and will feed pollinators.

Hostas, like our lawns, will survive on an inch of water per week, and the plants prefer deep, less-frequent watering over more frequent but shallow watering. Hostas prefer shade; however, if the plant has light green leaves, it will tolerate a lot of sun. Two to three hours of dappled or intermittent sunlight per day is preferred. Generally, the darker the leaf, the more shade the plant requires.

Hostas are slow to start and then slowly spread once the plant is established after a year or so. The plant does not need to be divided, and if left undisturbed, will expand – some varieties spreading to several feet wide. The blooms will turn into seed pods; yet, taking divisions off the parent plant is the best method for propagation.

What appears to be a single plant is a group of plants that are best divided in the spring. The early spring growth appears as green points growing straight up out of the soil. Divide the root ball with three or more points in each division. An alternate method is to take a pie-shaped wedge out of the root ball. The remaining plant sections will then spread and quickly cover the removed area.

Gardeners often plant different hosta varieties next to each other to highlight the differences. Hostas do not require but may bene t from fertilizer in the spring; however, it should not be used after July so the plant may prepare for winter. Mulch applied after the ground has frozen in the fall will also provide winter protection.

Despite their hardiness, hostas may be bothered by deer and slugs. A fence or various commercial products may be used to deter these pests. Hail will also punch holes in hosta leaves, but the plant will recover.

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

OPINION

Today He cried, “The chance of dying from Shoulders are aching. Check. Thyroid is COVID-19 is higher than death by the vacthrobbing. Check. Something is off and I must cine and injury from the vaccine.” He conlook at my surroundings. tinued, “You breathing on me and killing me The fall has added more schooling for my with COVID and breathing on my parents children and activities to run them to. My heart and killing them with COVID makes me burns with passion to learn more about the Bible have autonomy over your body, and I get to and to equip others to live for God’s glory. This force the vaccine on you as a result.” new bodily stress is partly self-in icted pressure But that didn’t make sense because he and partly government pressure. Government was vaccinated, so he’s been told that he is forcing anything on individuals is enough to safe. So, then he tried explaining, “I care for make the most compliant soul shake, but what is LIFE BY FAITH it that makes the steady Christian’s soul shake? BY MERCY NYGAARD you because the unvaccinated are the ones Here’s what I know, but I don’t often think who are dying and you could breathe on my about. There are others who are a part of this parents and give them another case of COstory too and don’t want to be. It’s time we all share about VID, so I have autonomy over your body.” it. This is the Sauk Rapids Herald, the longest running Listen, it doesn’t make sense, and we will never weekly newspaper in the state of Minnesota. You have agree on the vaccine. The important thing I want to reiteither gotten the vaccine or are being threatened to get erate is the reason why is fear. it or else possibly lose your job, lose access to your chilAs Christians, we are not to be driven by fear. This dren’s sports and many more privileges. It doesn’t matter interviewer was consumed with fear over COVID-19. As where you stand politically; everyone has many parts in Christians, we know where we are going when we die this story. Share your story with the staff. and we know what we are to do here before we die. We I lost my grandmother, in her 90s, who contracted are to love God, love others and share the good news.

COVID-19 and took her last breaths in 2020. We weren’t The government changing the constitution has my allowed to see her unless we were wearing hazmat suits. shoulders lled with tension because it is a sign our time My friends were told they couldn’t watch their children’s is growing shorter. That time is to be used loving othsports in person unless they could show their C-19 vac- ers’ hearts all the way to Jesus. So many who are lookcine certi cate, and they reluctantly made the decision to ing to the vaccine for salvation when they do not know get the shot. My other friend left her job in the healthcare the Savior of the world. I would be afraid too if I didn’t eld because she is choosing not to get it. know where I was going if I died. But, I am not afraid to We all have a story, and disregarding our opinion on lose my life from this virus. I’m afraid when I’m watchwhat we think is right or not, we can share our experi- ing Net ix when I could be ministering to a single mom, ences. We can see each other through the lens of human- scrolling Instagram when I could be considering others ity and gather enough information through our stories to in order to stir up love and good works, or trying to help think critically. decipher my child’s Latin assignments when I could be A recent interview between the Young Turks and teaching her to love God and others with her whole heart. two members of the Patriot Party of Arizona, regarding If it feels like the government or this entire world’s a uni ed party where Democrats and Republicans come agenda is closing in, I encourage you to grab your Bible together to rid both parties of the corruption of corporate and nd the hope within the promises of God. Live by rule and corporate media, has fueled my passion to tell faith. you what is truly important.

“For if we sin willfully after we have received the It sounds like a utopian thought that would solve a lot knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacriof problems: two parties coming together. They attempt- ce for sins but a certain fearful expectation of judgment ed to talk about the idea until the topic of the COVID-19 and ery indignation which will devour the adversaries. virus came up. The interviewer of the Young Turks began … It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living to show his true colors, raising his voice and exclaiming God,” Heb 10:26-31. he had the right to turn others into law enforcement for “But we are not of those who draw back to perdition being unvaccinated and to force them to be injected with but of those who believe to the saving of the soul,” Heb the vaccine.

10:39.

Hot button issues aplenty this interim

The governor’s emergency powers into marketable factions. ended and the 2022 session does not begin We could start with last winter’s push until Jan. 31, 2022, putting us squarely in for comprehensive sexual education legisinterim season. That said, issues never take lation that would introduce to elementarya break. age children sensitive material pertaining Bias aside, it is hard to recall a time to drugs, sex, and diverse gender identities when there was such a diverse set of topics and orientations. Then came efforts to put driving complex, emotional and adamant critical race theory in our schools, a move opinions from people across the ideological that would teach our children the basis of spectrum. I am hearing from constituents our culture and history is steeped in race STRAIGHT FROM on both sides of the aisle who cannot take and racism. In other words, focusing on THE CAPITOL “this” or want to see an end put to “that” identity politics and whiteness.

BY REP. SHANE MEKELAND daily.

Those are controversial subjects, to say MN HOUSE 15B While facemasks have caused plenty the least, but that’s only the beginning. Pubof layered discussions on their own, one of lic safety has been another topic generating the latest hot-button subjects to evolve pertains to vaccine strong opinions. Campaigns to defund the police are takmandates. What makes this especially interesting is there ing place in Minneapolis at a time that the city’s violent is no direct correlation between someone’s vaccination crime has surged to levels not seen since the mid-‘90s. status and their position on vaccine mandates.

(This might be a good time to say I strongly support law In other words, you don’t have to be an anti-vaxxer to enforcement. Your job likely is more challenging today oppose the government forcing vaccines on private citi- than the day you started, and I appreciate all the work you zens and businesses. This is becoming a major issue in the do to keep us safe. As simplistic as it sounds, less law health care industry, where people who were on the front enforcement will neither reduce crime nor assure justice.) lines battling COVID-19 now are faced with a scenario My hope is we nd productivity in these conversawhere refusing a mandate could cost them their jobs. tions, and the more correspondence I receive as a legislaI have personally heard from enough health care pro- tor, the better. It helps me to learn more about points of fessionals who are concerned about mandated vaccines view I may not have considered, making me a stronger to understand this is not an isolated case or two, or even representative for the people who live in District 15B. My a handful. Rather, it is a widespread problem coming to a default position is to stand on the side of freedom and that head. We already have a shortage of healthcare workers much never will change. and, pandemic or not, our reliance upon them is only goWe have another four and a half months to prepare ing to increase in this aging society. for the 2022 session, so let’s keep talking and see if we A recent piece I wrote regarding the 20th anniversary can rekindle some of that faded unity. Let’s put down the of the 9/11 terrorist attacks touched on the polarization pitchforks, stop with the divisiveness and nd ways we of our nation today. I noted how the remarkable unity we can agree on solutions to make our state and nation better showed on Sept. 12, 2001, has eroded due, in part, to ca- places. reer politicians perpetuating issues that split constituents

OPINION/ NEWS

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021 | Page 7

Old wounds

In the late 1990s, my mom started a new a guy whose girlfriend wouldn’t let him job. I remember watching her apply Mary go to second base due to her religious beKay makeup with nervous anticipation on her liefs. rst day.

The younger brother had also had a Mom didn’t love her job, but she loved girlfriend at one time or another, I later her new circle of friends. It was there she met learned. In the days before social media, I a woman who became her best friend. didn’t have a clue.

By the early 2000s, Mom was spending At the least, I thought they were my a lot of time with “Cathy.” Her new BFF had friends, but to this day I have no recoltwo teenage sons who were one and four years EXPRESSIONS BY EL lection of them ever acknowledging my my senior and two little boys who were born BY ELLARRY PRENTICE existence in public. in the early years of their friendship.

I wish someone would have told me I met “J” and “G” the summer I turned that love is not being forced to do things 13. Naturally, I had never kissed a boy. My dad said he that make you feel weird, nor does it involve sharing a would be ne with that for the rest of my life, but I started vulnerable girl like a toy and warning her not to tell. I daydreaming about it when I met the teenage brothers. wish I would have had the courage to speak up. I wish I One night, Mom went out with Cathy, and her older had waited to be intimate with someone who loved and sons and I were in charge of babysitting our younger respected me. I wish I would have been years older besiblings. The older one “accidently” groped me on the fore I did anything at all. trampoline. I felt a little uncomfortable but told myself I wish Cathy’s sons knew how much that impacted I should be happy. After all, I had just told my friends at me, even though I never spoke about it to anyone. middle school that he was, “so hot.”

Until now.

Before I went to Cathy’s the next time, I sneaked A couple months ago, out of the blue, I was coninto Mom’s Mary Kay drawer. Maybe he’d kiss me this tacted by one of the brothers. He spoke with arrogance time and ask me to be his girlfriend. and feigned interest in how my life had turned out before He didn’t. But he groped me again. quickly cutting to the chase.

His brother started doing it, too. They didn’t seem to I’m still reeling from the inappropriate things he mind taking turns touching me and coercing me into do- said to me and baf ed that, almost 20 years later, he still ing things to them. It seemed to be a contest to see who regards me the same – an object for which to meet his could go the furthest. desire.

As much as I’d dreamed about attention from a boy, Too bad for him, I’m no longer the timid and vulnerit didn’t feel right. But I never resisted. able girl of my past.

Young and naive, I thought that’s how you get a After blocking him so he cannot contact me again, boyfriend and, eventually, how you “earn” your way a I called my mom. I nally told her about the feelings rst kiss as good as in the movies.

I’ve harbored for years. She validated what I said, and I I didn’t tell my mom what was going on, only promised myself that when I become a parent, I won’t let friends. It sounded cool at rst, especially when I left history repeat itself. out the parts I didn’t like, but my friends started to disI’m not proud of that chapter in my life, but I hope believe me the night I waved to the oldest brother, whom my story will encourage girls to trust their gut and speak I had the biggest crush on, at the movie theater and he out when they nd themselves in any situation that pretended not to know me. makes them feel uncomfortable or in danger.

Not long after that, when I saw him holding hands There are ill-intentioned people out there who will with a girl presumed to be his girlfriend, I felt an enor- pretend to care about you while leaving wounds that still mous stab of heartbreak, shame and betrayal all at once. sting decades later. I’m proud of victims who are speakI wasn’t going to get a compliment or a date or a ing out and holding them accountable. movie-worthy kiss. I was an object – an experiment for Let’s continue to break the silence.

BREAK CROSSWORD

Police Activity Report

Rice Police Department Aug. 30 to Sept. 13 Sept. 7, 8:25 a.m. – Law enforcement were noti ed of seven cows on a roadway near 118th Street Northwest and River Road Northeast. Of cers located the cattle closer to Bend in the River Regional Park. Law enforcement stood with activated lights as they contacted the owner of the cattle. After the owner responded, the of cer assisted the owner and the Benton County Sheriff’s Of ce deputy with getting the cattle back into the fenced area. t Incidents: Traf c stops 19, miscellaneous calls 11, agency assists 8, medical calls 2, record checks 3, animal fcalls 2, assists 2, suspicious activity reports 2 and vehicle calls 2.

Sauk Rapids Police Department Sept. 6-13 Sept. 7, 1:26 a.m. – The Benton County Sheriff’s Of ce received a report of a robbery in progress at the tCorner Pocket Saloon-n-Eatery in Rice. BCSO requested assistance from Morrison County deputies and Sauk Rapids police. Contact was made with two parties inside the establishment; they stated all was ne.

Sept. 8, 12:31 a.m. – While on patrol, an of cer noticed a vehicle parked on the side of the road at 18th Street Northwest and Benton Drive. The vehicle’s owner is homeless and known to sleep in her car with her cats.

With bus stops near the vehicle, the of ce planned to proactively ask the person to move the vehicle in order to not alarm parents. The female was not inside.

Sept. 8, 6:30 a.m. – An anonymous caller reported pounding sounds coming from an apartment on the 1200 block of Second Avenue North. Police contact the resident of the apartment who said all was ne. The female resident was vacuuming while her children showered before the rst day of school.

Incidents: Medical calls 23, assists 15, suspicious activity reports 14, miscellaneous calls 13, welfare checks 9, permits to purchase 6, pet licenses 6, alarms 5, animal calls 5, disturbances 5, human services reports 5, thefts 5, driving complaints 4, property calls 4, disputes 3, harassment calls 3, proactive visits 3, traf c stops 3, warnings 3, agency assists 2, deaths 2, reworks complaints 2, hit and run calls 2, suicidal persons 2, traf c hazards 2 and verbal warnings 2.

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Page 8 | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD we treat people like people. because, they’re people. simple human sense

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The Sauk Rapids-Rice High School football team consists of Bryce Lund, Owen Arndt, Cole Paulson, Chris Marten-Rosenow, Dominic Mathies, Cole Ackerman, Alex Harren, Jayce Walrath, Matthew Golembeski, Mason Welch and Austin Horn; (second row, from left) Peyton Olson, Carter Loesch, Will White, Zach Kosloske, Graham Doherty, Jack O’Brien, Noah Jensen, Riley Stover, Dane Dingmann and Jacob Peters; (third row, from left) Keegan Patterson, Jack Klein, Cohen Mathies, Jeff Solorz, Ethan Purcell, Andrew Harren, Ethan Anderson, Broden Flakne, Mason Rudolph, Chayce Larocque and Max Loesch; (fourth row, from left) Evan Kardell, Kavan Gullette, Ethan Klug, John Petrie, Cooper Walder, Travis Biery, Shaun Walrath, Christian Garcia, Lucas Barber and Brandt Andres; (fifth row, from left) Ethan Martin, Walker Loesch, Justin Behrendt, Logan Winker, Dillon Miller, Austin Beierman, Chris Wolter, Will Gunderson, Beaux Sychampanakhone, Reid Kiffmeyer and Nolan Robish; (sixth row, from left) Mason Sherman, Jaxxon Waxweiler, student manager Corina Miller, student manager Ella Gunderson, student manager Catie Gilbertson, Luke Scheeler and Landon Combel; (back, from left) assistant coach Eric Johnson, assistant coach Robbie Sauter, assistant coach Mark Schultz, assistant coach John Solberg, assistant coach Dwight Summerville, assistant coach Brady DeGagne, head coach Phillip Klaphake, assistant coach Loren Finlayson, assistant coach John Rasmussen, assistant coach Zach Brown, assistant coach Brett Mushatt and assistant coach Andrew Weber. Not pictured are Alex Gordon and Devin Bryant

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

NEWS/ PUBLIC NOTICES

Granite delays playground opening Old equipment donated to county

BY NATASHA BARBER WITH TIM SPEIER STAFF WRITER

SAUK RAPIDS – The say patience is a virtue, and that virtue has certainly been tested in Sauk Rapids this summer.

City of cials and residents are playing the waiting game following an unforeseen delay in the playground project at Sauk Rapids Lions Sunset Park.

Granite beneath the soil’s surface has become problematic as contractors attempt to install a rubberized playground surface.

“To install the new playground equipment, they have to drill holes for the foundation’s poles,” said Todd Schultz, community development director for the city of Sauk Rapids. “And when drilling three of the holes, we encountered granite.”

The surface was a staff solution to the potential hazard preexisting woodchips from the former playground would have had on the park’s new water feature.

Wood chips could render the feature’s pumps and jets unusable.

Because the old playground equipment was nearing the end of its lifespan, the city chose to purchase new equipment for the park before installing the new $100,000 surface.

Now, with the stone standing in the way, dates of completion for the playground, surface and water feature are on hold.

PHOTO BY TIM SPEIER

New playground equipment sits empty Sept. 13 at Sauk Rapids Lions Sunset Park in Sauk Rapids. The playground renovation, and nearby water feature, have been delayed due to granite stone beneath the site.

“It is possible that if we get late enough into the year, that we might end up having to put a fence around it for the winter until we can nish it and make it safe for people to use in the spring,” Schultz said.

“We don’t know yet. At the moment, it’s possible we might be able to get it done yet this fall, and that certainly is our goal.”

The former playground equipment will be donated to Benton County following a decision at the Sept. 13 Sauk Rapids City Council meeting, although a portion of the setup may be retained by the park subcommittee. The county expressed need for equipment at its regional Benton Beach park, according to city documents.

In other council news: – Approved appointing Cole Roach to a police of cer position. Roach is a Sauk

Public Notice CITY OF RICE REQUESTING PROPOSALS City Assessor: The City of Rice, Minnesota is requesting proposals to provide assessing and related services to the City, Proposals must be received by the City no later than 4:00 p.m. on September 27th, 2021 and should be addressed to: City of Rice Attn: Julie Fandel, City Clerk 205 Main St E P.O. Box 179 Rice, MN 56367 To request a copy of the RFP please contact Julie Fandel at jfandel@ricemn.us or (320)393-2280.

Each proposal submitted shall be valid for ninety (90) days.

The City is located in Benton County. The population is approximately 1,382. The candidate will assist the City in other duties as needed.

R-36-2B NOTICE OF DISSOLUTION BTCI, Inc., a Minnesota corporation (the “Company”), ceased business operations on, or before, August 31, 2021, and the Company has submitted the appropriate noti cations to the Minnesota Secretary of State. Any party having outstanding business with the Company, or desiring to submit a claim, must do so in writing no later than November 1, 2021.

All notices should be submitted to 508 Main Street South, #4, Sauk Centre, MN, 56378.

R-36-4B

Rapids-Rice High School graduate and obtained his associate degree in criminal justice from St. Cloud State University.

He is currently employed

by CentraCare Health as a security assistant. Roach’s hire is pending physical and psychological evaluation as required for the position.

– Approved hiring probationary re ghters

Tyler Gedicke and Skylar Fynboh.

– Mayor Kurt Hunstiger signed a proclamation recognizing the Sauk Rapids Women of Today organization.

The organization celebrated their 50th anniversary July 13, 1971. They marked the occasion with a gathering Aug. 14.

Ferche Millwork sold to Florida-based company RICE – A Florida-based company has acquired Ferche Millwork.

Hoffman Family of Companies has acquired the Rice business and its brands including Ferche Frames, Fire-Rated Frames and Ferche Lumber, as well as 87 acres of land in Rice and Mount Pleasant, Tennessee, according to a release on Hoffman’s website.

Headquartered off Division Street North in Rice, Ferche Millwork has been creating hardwood mouldings and millwork since 1958. It produces over 13,000 products each year.

“We are pleased to become part of the Hoffman Family of Companies,” said Gerald Grider, president of Ferche Millwork in a release. “From our initial contact with the management group, we have been impressed with their enthusiasm and philosophy. We look forward to a new era at Ferche Millwork under the Hoffman Family of Companies umbrella.”

Ferche Millwork leadership and employees will continue with the company.

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Public Notice REGULAR MEETING SAUK RAPIDS CITY COUNCIL SAUK RAPIDS GOVERNMENT CENTER, 250 Summit Ave N. Monday, August 23, 2021 6:00PM MINUTES 1. Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance Acting Mayor Nick Sauer called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Members present: Ellen Thronson, Jason Ellering, and Dottie Seamans. Members absent: Kurt Hunstiger.

2. Additions or Changes to the Agenda Ross Olson requested to add Approve Administration, Liquor Store staff, and City Council member attendance to the Annual MMBA Conference in Alexandria as agenda item 9-B. 3. Approve the Agenda Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded by Councilperson Thronson to approve the agenda as amended.

Motion carried unanimously.

4. Approve Minutes A. 08-09-2021 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes Motion: Moved by Councilperson Seamans and seconded by Councilperson Ellering to approve the 08-09-2021 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes.

5. Receive and File NONE 6. Mayor’s Communications NONE 7. Audience Items/Visitors Total Time Limit 2 Minutes for Items NOT on the Agenda Mike Kna a, 101 6th Ave North, stated that he grew up in Sauk Rapids, but then spent his entire adult life in California. Kna a said that prior to moving back to Sauk Rapids, he lived in Chico, California. He suggested that the City of Sauk Rapids look into a more environmentally friendly approach to cleaning up leaves. He said that what was done in Chico, CA was that residents cleaned up their leaves and put them neatly on the city streets and then the Public Works Department went by and cleaned them in a manner that required no leaf bags or drives to the compost site and prevents debris from entering the storm drain system while keeping the lakes and rivers clean.

8. Public Hearings A. Applicant Purpose City of Sauk Rapids To Consider the Making of the 2022 2nd Avenue North Improvements 1. Open Public Hearing 2. Close Public Hearing Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded by Councilperson Thronson to close the public hearing. Motion carried unanimously.

3. Consider Action Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded by Councilperson Seamans to approve the Resolution Authorizing Preparation of Plans and Speci cations for the 2022 Second Avenue North Improvements. Motion carried unanimously.

9. Consent Agenda A. Approve 2021 Plumbing and Mechanical Contractor Licenses B. Approve Administration, Liquor Store staff, and City Council Member Attendance to the Annual MMBA Conference in Alexandria Motion: Moved by Councilperson Thronson and seconded by Councilperson Seamans to approve consent agenda item 9A-9B. Motion carried unanimously.

10. Regular Agenda NONE 11. Other Staff Items A. Water Usage Update Ross Olson said that he had a good discussion with the Utilities Director earlier today regarding the drought conditions. Olson stated that a number of surrounding communities have watering bans and/or watering restrictions. He said that the City of Sauk Rapids is okay right now in terms of maintaining its water levels. Olson stated that usage has continued to come down as suggestions for conserving water have been implemented and as more people refrain from watering all together. He said the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has requested that cities get down to a certain level of ow right now. Olson explained that the City of Sauk Rapids is doing everything that the DNR has requested. He noted that all of this could change if the DNR enforced a state-wide mandate or if anything changed in terms of usage. Olson said that this decision for the City has been driven by science.

12. Other Council Items and Communications A. Riverside Nights-Ross Olson noted that only two more nights remain of the Riverside Nights music series. He thanked Rinke Noonan for sponsoring this week’s events. Olson said that there is a chance for rain this Thursday. The City will continue to monitor the weather all week, but currently the plan is for the show to go on. There are provisions in the Riverside Nights contracts for weather cancellations.

13. Approve List of Bills and Claims Motion: Moved by Councilperson Thronson and seconded by Councilperson Ellering to approve the List of Bills and Claims.

Motion carried unanimously.

14. Adjournment Motion: Moved by Councilperson Ellering and seconded by Councilperson Seamans to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried unanimously.

Acting Mayor Sauer adjourned the meeting at 6:36 p.m.

R-37-1B

SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021 | Page 11

SPORTS

Boys soccer snaps losing streak Quick start sparks 5-1 win over Fergus Falls

BY TOM FENTON STAFF WRITER

Nothing like stopping a four-game losing to streak to inspire muchneeded con dence. The Sauk Rapids-Rice High School boys soccer team received a jolt of energy in their collective steps on the way to a 5-1 win Sept. 14 at Fergus Falls.

Getting off to fast starts has been an early season issue for the Storm but was not in this game as they jumped to a 4-0 halftime lead.

“We did well at playing hard starting from the rst whistle,” SRR head coach

Chris Rothstein said. “We didn’t let the foot off the gas for the entire rst half. It gives us a lot of con dence to snap that losing streak.

Hopefully we can continue that momentum.”

Senior Eli Moilanen had a goal and assist, and his fellow co-captain, Keegan Pham, had two goals on a team-leading six shots. Leif Rudnick had a goal on four shots, and Gavin Emery added a goal for the Storm, who improved to 2-4 on the season.

“It felt good to get a victory in the fashion we played, and it will for sure raise some of the teams’ con dence but not too

much because everyone knows there is still a great amount of work to do,” Moilanen said. “The team talked better last night and moved as a team rather than a bunch of individuals, which helped the spacing and shape of our team look and play better.”

Cooper Godwin had two shots, and Owen Arndt had one shot and an assist as did Kyan RobideauTurk. Freshman Garret Broman also had a shot on goal, and Callen Kieke contributed one assist.

Junior Josh Tapio was strong in goal, stopping eight Otter shots.

“The season has gone so-so thus far, but I think the team is starting to understand shape and positioning better and better daily,” Moilanen

said.

Things did not go quite as smooth in a 3-1 loss to Rocori Sept. 9 in Cold Spring. Tapio had eight saves and assisted on the only Storm goal, which came from Pham. Rudnick had a team-best four shots for SRR, which trailed 2-0 at halftime.

“We conceded in the rst three minutes, had a bad rst half and it was too much to recover from,” Rothstein said.

Fatigued Storm fall to Brainerd Girls soccer earns tie, defeats Rocori

BY TOM FENTON STAFF WRITER

A double overtime game the night before was not a recipe for success for the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School girls soccer team Sept. 15.

In a makeup game that was washed out due to the early evening storm Sept.

13, the Storm fell at in a 7-1 loss to an unbeaten Brainerd team at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School elds in Sauk Rapids. SRR was coming off a 2-2 tie against Fergus Falls Sept.

14 at Sauk Rapids-Rice Middle School Stadium.

“We gave up ve corner kicks and played slow,” Storm head coach Tash Neu said. “Time was not in our favor after playing so long the night before. We de nitely played and looked tired and just didn’t rise to the occasion. It was a tough night for us.”

The Warriors scored twice in the rst half before putting the game away in the second, nishing with 35 shots – 28 of which were on goal. Maggie Fernholz stopped 21 shots.

Against Fergus Falls, Emily Starr sent the game into overtime, booting in the tying goal with

1 minute, 47 seconds remaining on a pass from Ava Plemel. Gabby Fernholz pulled SRR to a 1-1 with an assist going to Aneleise Martinson.

Maggie Fernholz stopped 10 shots helping secure the tie on Parents Night.

“We played very well, and the girls are gaining a lot of con dence in their ability to challenge oneon-one,” Neu said of the game against the Otters.

“They made simple passes and played with a lot of re. We missed a lot of opportunities, but we are growing. It’s been fun to watch.”

The Storm offense had their biggest output of the season in a 5-0 victory at Rocori Sept. 9 in Cold Spring. Gabby Fernholz opened the scoring 15 minutes in, and SRR got a goal off a Rocori player to

take a 2-0 lead.

Starr added a rst-half goal, and Gabby Fernholz added two second-half tallies in the victory.

Maggie Fernholz had ve saves.

“We played very well,” Neu said. “Rocori is always an aggressive team and their keeper played well.

We played fast and really executed on decisionmaking. We have been working hard on playing our speed and playing fast, and it really showed in the game. Ultimately, we are getting better every day and that’s all I can ask for.”

The Storm (1-4-1) started a three-game stretch of road games Sept. 16 at Alexandria before traveling to Willmar Monday, Sept.

20, and Apollo High School in St. Cloud Tuesday, Sept.

21.

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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021 | Page 13

SPORTS

No contest

Storm football rides huge first half to convincing victory over Tech

BY TOM FENTON STAFF WRITER

The second play of the game and the last play of the rst half told the story, and it was an easy read for the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School football team. Put it this way – it was more like Dr. Seuss than Stephen King.

The Storm did whatever they wanted early and often in their Sept. 10 contest against Tech. They threw the ball, ran the ball and played the same stingy defense as their season-opener in a 42-21 victory over Tech at the Sauk Rapids-Rice Middle School Stadium in Sauk Rapids.

“We’re not anything special yet, but I think our goals are bigger than our current state,” said Phillip Klaphake, Sauk RapidsRice head coach. “The kids are hungry, so we’ll dangle those carrots out in front of them.”

The Storm led 36-0 at halftime, leaving most of the second half as an opportunity for many players to make their varsity debuts.

Senior quarterback Dom Mathies had time to throw on every attempt, and with athletic receivers on his side, the result was a record-setting performance.

Mathies threw ve touchdowns – all in the rst half – to break the school record for touchdown passes.

On the game’s second play, Mathies threw what looked to be a relatively harmless sideline pass that Alex Harren turned into a 69-yard touchdown. Jayce Walrath intercepted a Tech pass on the Tigers ensuing drive and moments later caught a Mathies pass and turned it into an 11-yard

touchdown.

Mathies added a 41yard scoring strike to Alex Harren and a 6-yard connection to his brother, Andrew Harren, on the rst play of the second quarter for a 29-0 lead. When SRR turned over Tech on downs with less than 10 seconds left in the rst half, Mathies hit Andrew Harren for a 21-yard touchdown on the next play, sending the large home crowd into a frenzy.

“Our offense is clicking,” said Andrew Harren, who caught four passes for 73 yards. “We all know each other and hang around outside of football. We’re just having fun. We knew we wanted to be really physical against them, and they played a lot of man-to-man defense, so we threw the ball a lot. Our game plan worked.”

The ve touchdown passes for Mathies broke a school record previously held by John Cloeter, Tyler Bjork and Cade MiltonBaumgardner.

“I had no idea that was possible,” said Mathies, who completed 13 of 18 passes for 268 yards. “I didn’t see that coming at all.

It felt great. We’ve got so many people who play well together. I distributed the ball and everybody caught it. I can count on every one of these guys. We just have that connection. We all know each other so well and that makes it so fun.”

The Storm came off a momentum-building win over rival Sartell but did not let over-con dence become a factor against a Tech team that entered the game 0-2 after losses to Sartell and Moorhead.

The rst-team defense for SRR has yet to give up a point.

“We’ve got a lot of two- and three-year starters, so we’ve got great chemistry,” said junior Travis Biery, who had ve tackles. “We communicate at a high level, and we do whatever we can to get ready.”

The Storm nished with 425 yards of offense while giving up 244.

Austin Horn added a 13-yard touchdown run on SRR’s rst drive of the second half. The large lead allowed Klaphake to give several players their rst appearances in a varsity game.

“The second half was a lot of kids getting some learning

PHOTOS BY TOM FENTON

Sauk Rapids-Rice senior Jayce Walrath dives for a first-quarter interception as Jack O’Brien (42) and Will White move in for support during the Storm’s 42-21 victory over Tech Sept. 10 at Sauk Rapids-Rice Middle School Stadium in Sauk Rapids. A few plays later, Walrath caught an 11-yard touchdown pass from Dom Mathies.

experiences,” Klaphake said. “Everybody’s rst experience in varsity football isn’t that good.

We know that’s going to happen. There were some frustrating moments, but there’s a lot of talent there.

That’s why we throw them out there. We let them take their lumps so next time they’re not so new.”

The Storm put their unbeaten record on the line at 7 p.m. Sept. 17, when they took on 1-1 Alexandria. The Cardinals opened the season with a 36-20 loss to state powerhouse Hutchinson before defeating Bemidji Sept. 11.

Watch for the game story from the Sauk Rapids-

Scan the QR code with your camera on your smartphone

Rice versus Alexandria game online. The story should be uploaded to www.saukrapidsherald. com by noon Saturday, Sept. 18. Also follow us on Twitter @HeraldSauk and Facebook.

Tech 0 0 7 14-21 SRR 22 14 6 0-42 First quarter: SRR – Alex Harren 69 pass from Mathies (Walker Loesch 2-point conversion). SRR – Walrath 11 pass from Mathies (Owen Arndt kick). SRR – Alex Harren 41 pass from Mathies (Arndt kick). Second quarter: SRR – Andrew Harren 5 pass from Mathies (Arndt kick). SRR – Andrew Harren 21 pass from Mathies (Arndt kick). Third quarter: Tech – 2 run (kick good). SRR – Austin Horn 13 run (kick blocked). Fourth quarter: Tech – 10 pass.

Tech – 12 run.

SRR rushing: Horn 5-47, Alex Harren 4-32, Mathies 4-14, Zach Kosloske 6-10, Broden Flakne 3-8. SRR passing: Mathies 13-18 276 0, Jack Klein 3-6 48 0. SRR receiving: Alex Harren 3-124, Andrew Harren 4-73, Carter Loesch 2-36, Walrath 3-29, Mason Welch 1-26, Bryce Lund 1-16, Cole Paulson 1-10, Ethan Anderson 1-25.

SRR tackles (solo-assists): Max Loesch 5-1, Matthew Golembeski 4-0, Cole Ackerman 3-4, Alex Harren 2-0, Walker Loesch 2-0, Travis Biery 2-3, Chayce Laroque 2-2, Graham Doherty 2-1, Kosloske 1-2, Flakne 1-1, Carter Loesch 1-5, Will White 1-4.

MORE PHOTOS FROM THESE GAMES NOW AVAILABLE ONLINE Football vs. Tech Volleyball vs.

Fergus Falls Swim and dive vs.

Monticello

Sauk Rapids-Rice senior quarterback Dom Mathies rushes for a gain during his team’s 42-21 victory over Tech Sept.

10 at Sauk Rapids-Rice Middle School Stadium. Mathies threw for a school-record five touchdown passes, all in the first half, as the Storm improved to 2-0.

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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021 | Page 15

SPORTS

Home victory

brings smiles for Storm

Fun was the key word for the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School volleyball team Sept. 14. The result was a convincing 3-0 Central Lakes Conference victory over Fergus Falls at the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School gym in Sauk Rapids.

“It was our rst home win of the season and it was a loving environment,” said Morgan Eggert of her team’s 25-14, 25-10 and 25-19 victory over the Otters. “We all had a lot of fun and were getting along so well. We were trusting each other and had such a good team dynamic. I feel like we executed in a good way.”

The Storm made quick work of Fergus Falls and rode a balanced attack to the victory. Junior Lexi Helmin led SRR with eight kills, followed by junior Ava Athman with six.

Sophomore Jordyn Lee, senior Sophia Rothstein and Eggert added three each.

Senior Kieryn Hirdler continues to make a difference after missing the rst two matches to injury, leading the Storm with 14 set assists. Senior Darci Peterson added nine assists.

The win gave SRR a chance to celebrate and test the singing voices with the school song.

“It was very special,” said Eggert, junior outside hitter. “The energy in the gym and getting to sing the school song was amazing.

We were a strong team. We were just having fun and getting along. We brushed off the mistakes and made the best of the situation.”

Senior Brielle Andvik and junior Grace Urbowicz led the team defensively with ve digs each. Helmin added six blocks.

“We found a team dynamic in this one and hopefully we can incorporate it into the rest of the season,” Eggert said.

The SRRHS gym was a happening place for the Storm Invitational Sept.

11. SRR nished fourth in the event with a 2-2 record.

Sauk Centre won the competition with a 25-13, 25-15 win over Brainerd.

The Storm opened pool play with a 25-12, 2510 win over Royalton and followed it up with a 2522, 25-15 win over Foley.

The eventual champion Mainstreeters halted SRR’s title hopes with a 25-19, 25-11 win. Pipestone made the long trip northeast and nished with a 25-18, 2522 victory over SRR. Helmin and Peterson led the offense, compiling 15 kills each during the tournament. Eggert and Athman added 12 apiece, and Hirdler sparked the attack with 47 set assists.

Urbowicz anchored the

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Sauk Rapids-Rice sophomore Ava Athman completes a successful block during the Storm Invitational Sept. 11 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School. Athman had 12 kills in the event as the Storm went 2-2 to place fourth.

defense with 25 digs.

Moorhead made the trip east on Interstate 94 Sept. 9 and returned home with a 3-0 victory. Peterson

and Helmin each had ve kills, and Hirdler had 18 assists.

The Storm took a 4-5 record into a Sept. 16 match

at Apollo High School in St. Cloud. SRR hosts Tech High School Tuesday, Sept.

21, and Sartell Thursday, Sept. 23, in Sauk Rapids.

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Sauk Rapids-Rice junior Grace Urbowicz passes the ball as teammates Morgan Eggert (left) and April Nelson move in for support during the Storm Invitational Sept. 11 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. Urbowicz compiled 25 digs in the tournament.

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How do you make a difference at school? I try to be a positive role model by making sure everybody is welcomed at our school and nobody feels left out. I try to join clubs and programs Parents: Federcio Flores and Sandra Bonilla to get me more involved in the school Accomplishment: Senior on the Storm girls and that helps our community grow. swimming and diving team.

What do you do for entertainment? I try other sports for fun, do open swim or What is your favorite aspect of the season was such a rewarding spend time with my friends and family. swimming? Being part of a team experience, and I will never forget it. that demonstrates what a hardOf all the things you are learning, working team is all about. We always What other activities are you what do you think will be the most support one another no matter if it involved in at Sauk Rapids- useful as an adult? The harder you is school, practice, meets, etc., and Rice High School? DECA, Link work for something, the greater Storm Leaders and you will feel when you achieve we push one another and ourselves Leader, to grow stronger as a swimmer. the Minnesota Honor Society. the thing you worked so hard for.

What has been your most memorable moment in swimming?

A memory that stands out for me in swimming was our team being the section champions in 2019.

Getting to see our team’s hard work finally pay off at the end of

What annual SRR event do you look forward to each year? Every year I look forward to homecoming week. It is so much fun to see the whole school participate by wearing homecoming shirts, dressing up and going to the game to cheer on the football team.

What is your favorite restaurant and what do you order? My favorite restaurant is Mongo’s Grill. I love to get ramen noodles with chicken, rice, eggs and vegetables.

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Saluting great accomplishments in the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School

Page 16 | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021 | SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

SPORTS

Sauk Rapids-Rice swimmer Samantha Haaf takes a breath during the 200yard freestyle in the Storm’s dual meet against Monticello Sept. 14 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in Sauk Rapids. Haaf finished fourth in the event with a time of 2:15.27.

PHOTOS BY TOM FENTON

Sauk Rapids-Rice swimmer Kaytlin Bittman glides through the water during the breaststroke leg of the 200 individual medley in the Storm’s dual meet against Monticello Sept. 14 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School.

Bittman was runner-up in the event with a time of 2:27.48.

Injuries, virus play a role in depleted swim and dive lineup

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Apollo High School Why did you want to play for the Granite City Lumberjacks? I want to win a championship. It’s the best organization around.

What are you looking forward to most in this season? Spending time with the fellas and having a heck of a year.

Who has had the most impact on your hockey career? My father.

He got me into the game.

Do you have any pregame rituals? No, not really. I just get dressed a certain way and tape my stick a certain way.

Favorites: Music? Food? Social Media? DaBaby, chicken Parmesan and TikTok. What advice do you have for the younger skaters of our community? Have fun playing the game and enjoy it. If you put your mind to anything, your dreams will come true.

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Before the season began, the captains of the Sauk Rapids-Rice High School girls swimming and diving team talked about the importance of supporting each other. That was evident before their dual meet with Monticello Sept. 14 started.

About halfway through a recorded version of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” the music stopped. For a few seconds, the team looked around wondering what to do.

That is when the captains of the team took charge. Though the result may not have matched Whitney Houston’s rendition at the 1991 Super Bowl in terms of vocal talent, the impromptu performance that included the SRRHS crowd along with their Monticello teammates spoke volumes when it comes to team unity.

“We heard the music go out and it was quiet, so Olivia (Tykwinski) and I started singing it and everyone else started doing it with us,” senior co-captain Valeria FloresBonilla said. “I think it says no matter what

circumstances we face, nothing can stop us and we’ll get through it.”

The result of the dual meet with Monticello was not what the Storm had hoped. The Magic, a section opponent, left town with a 120-66 victory.

“It was a really cool moment,” senior Kaytlin Bittman said of the singing performance. “It shows how uni ed we are as a team and how we can adapt to different circumstances.”

That said, there were positives despite the fact they – along with a growing number of programs – are dealing with injuries and positive COVID-19 tests.

“I’m excited about our energy and our team,” said Whitey Jendro, Storm cocoach. “We’ve had some dif culties to injuries.

We’re trying to nd that balance. We’re going to continue with highintensity practices while doing stroke and technique days.”

Monticello proved a more than worthy opponent. The Storm had a rst-place nish from the 200-yard freestyle relay of Valeria Flores-Bonilla, Jayden Stover, Sam Haaf and Bittman, nishing in 1 minute, 49.88 seconds.

The Magic controlled rst place in the other events, but SRR’s depth showed elsewhere.

“We’re doing a good job of improving meet by meet and adapting” said Bittman, who was a part of the second-place 200 medley relay. “We’re making sure all the new girls and middle schoolers are involved.”

200 MR: 2. Ally Lucas, Bittman, Valeria FloresBonilla and Tangen 2:00.15; and 3. Mia Lambrecht, Stover, Samantha Haaf and Kendal Stucke 2:07.71. 200 IM: 3. Bittman 2:30.49, 4.

Grace Thompson 2:52.07 and 5. Daniela FloresBonilla 2:52.39. 50 FS: 2.

Tangen 26.84 and 5. Stucke 27.65. 1M Diving: 3. Sophia Markfelder 142.65 points, 4.

Kendra Fitzpatrick 142. 100 FLY: 3. Haaf 1:09.16 and 5.

Thompson 1:15.22. 100 FS: 2. Lucas 59.43 and 4. Tangen 1:00.43. 500 FS: 3. Lambrecht 6:01.69, 4. Haaf 6:04.92 and 5. Stucke 6:21.33. 200 FSR: 2. Richelle Peacock, Stover, Tykwinski and Bittman 1:52.52. 100 BS: 1. Lucas 1:06.38 and 4. Lambrecht 1:12.81. 100 BR: 2. Bittman 1:15.57 and 4. Stover 1:22.46.

400 FSR: 1. Valeria FloresBonilla, Tangen, Stucke and Lucas 3:59.06.

Monticello 120, SRR 66 In a 99.5-80.5 loss to Alexandria Sept. 10 at SRRHS, the Storm had a rst-place nish from Ally Lucas, who recorded her rst career individual victory. Her time was 1:06.38.

“This part of the season can be a grind,” Jendro said. “Maintaining the yardage (in practice) as well as doing well in the meets can be a tough balance.”

The Storm swam in a dual at Fergus Falls Sept. 16 and swim against Rocori Sept. 23 in Cold Spring.

“I feel like we’ve been working and improving our mentality on supporting more girls,” Valeria FloresBonilla said. “I still feel like we have a strong and supportive group of girls, but I know we can get better on cheering. We’re starting to get faster times as we get into the middle of the season and with harder practices, we can push through it and improve.”

200 MR: 2. Valeria Flores-Bonilla, Bittman, Stucke and Lucas 2:00.74.

200 FS: 2. Valeria FloresBonilla 2:10.2 and 4.

Samantha Haaf 2:15.27. 200 IM: 2. Bittman 2:27.48 and 4. Stucke 2:32.66. 50 FS: 2.

Stover 27.38 and 4. Lauren Klein 27.88. 1M Diving: 3. Fitzpatrick 145.5 and 4.

Markfelder 129.95. 100 FS: 3.

Klein 1:02.16 and 5. Peacock 1:05.61. 500 FS: 2. Lucas 5:46.12 and 3. Lambrecht 6:00.73. 200 FSR: 1. Valeria Flores-Bonilla, Stover, Haaf and Bittman 1:49.88. 100 BS: 2. Lucas 1:07.21 and 5.

Lambrecht 1:11.86. 100 BR: 2. Bittman 1:15.17 and 5.

Stover 1:21.37. 400 FSR: 2.

Valeria Flores-Bonilla, Klein, Stucke and Lucas 4:02.88.

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Sauk Rapids-Rice swimmer Kendal Stucke swims the butterfly leg of the 200 medley relay in the Storm’s dual meet loss to Monticello Sept. 14 at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School. The relay team finished second with a time of 2:00.74.

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Myotonic: The new goat in town

Sauk Rapids Herald | Saturday, September 18, 2021

Area counties eligible for emergency loans

Jureks focus on genetics, hardiness in meat breed

BY NATASHA BARBER STAFF WRITER

by Ryan Brunn, executive director for Benton and Mille Lacs counties

Benton, Mille Lacs, Sherburne and Anoka counties were declared a primary disaster due to drought and heat using the streamlined Secretarial Disaster Designation process.

Under this designation, producers with operations in any primary or contiguous county are eligible to apply for low interest emergency loans.

The streamlined disaster designation process issues a drought disaster declaration when a county has experienced a drought intensity value of at least a D2 level, or severe drought, for eight consecutive weeks based on the U.S. Drought Monitor during the crop year.

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Three points.

On paper, that is what it takes for a Myotonic goat to become a permanent grand champion and be eligible for national competition.

Faberge, a senior doe that resides on the Jurek farm in rural Foley, earned those points over the course of 21 months and was deemed the 2019 reserve national champion doe in the fall of that year.

But in reality, creating a national champion takes much more.

Mackenzie Jurek has been raising Myotonic goats for nearly 10 years.

“They’re better,” said Mackenzie of why she chose the breed. … “Myotonics are smarter than most meat breeds. We’ve had other goats, and they were whiny and high maintenance.

These guys are not, and they don’t get into trouble.”

Goats have a notorious stereotype. Whether it is eating trash or jumping on the hoods of vehicles, the animal is known to

PHOTO BY NATASHA BARBER

The Jurek family – Rachael (from left), Mackenzie holding Warren, Christopher, and Philip holding Roman – stand with their goats, Barbarilla (left) and Willee, and dog, Puckett, Aug. 29 on their property in rural Foley. The family raises full-size Myotonic goats for meat sales and breeding stock.

be a mischief-maker.

But people who raise goats know the animals are much more than the characters found in storybook fables. Mackenzie characterizes her herd as intelligent, mannered and docile.

Philip and Mackenzie Jurek raise full-size Myotonic goats with their children – Christopher, 5, Rachael, 3, Roman, 2, and Warren, 11 months. Their family resides on Heavenly Hill

Farm in rural Foley, where a herd of 44 meat goats and four livestock guardian dogs are separated into paddocks dependent on sex and age.

The family raises the animals for meat sales and breeding stock, and they travel to Midwest and Southeast states each year, showing their animals in Myotonic Goat Registry sanctioned events. Their next appearance is in the MGR Fall Finale and

National Show Oct. 1-2 on the Henry County Fairgrounds in Eminence, Kentucky.

Myotonic goats, also known as fainting goats, originated in Tennessee in the late 1800s.

Along with traits such as a quiet temperament, adaptability and an abundance of dense muscle, this breed carries with it a distinct genetic condition.

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Page 2B | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021| SAUK RAPIDS HERALD

High-tech robotic dairy field day is Sept. 22 MCINTOSH – University of Minnesota Extension will host a summer eld day at Golden Sunrise Dairy, 31328 290 St. S.W., McIntosh, Sept. 22.

Golden Sunrise Dairy is owned and managed by Tim Rolf and his son, Derek. In 2020, they moved into a new automated cross-ventilated barn featuring the latest in dairy technology.

Calves are fed on automatic calf feeders. Cows are milked with Lely A5 robotic milking units.

Cows and heifers are fed with an automatic feeding system that weighs, mixes and delivers the correct diet to the correct group of animals. In addition, all manure is removed from the pens with a robotic manure removal system.

The Rolfs also grow corn and hay for their livestock. Tim’s family also has a farrow to nish swine operation.

Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. with the program from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., concluding with a lunch. There is no charge for the eld day.

Minnesota Milk Producers and Leedstone are sponsoring a bus trip to the eld day. The bus will be leaving from Meyer bus garage, 37264 County Road 13 in Melrose, at 7 a.m. and will be returning to Melrose at 4 p.m. There is a fee associated with the bus; contact Jenna at jenna@ mnmilk.org with your name to reserve a space.

Pre-registration is not required but is appreciated for an accurate lunch count. Register for the meal by leaving a message with your name and number of people attending with Heather DuFault at 218-280-1129.

The eld day is sponsored by Minnesota Dairy Initiatives, AgCountry Farm Credit Services, First State Bank of McIntosh, Leedstone and Minnesota Milk Producers.

For more information, contact Jim Salfer at 612-360-4506 or salfe001@umn.edu or Heather at 218-280-1129 or pohl0024@umn.edu.

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Preventing weed seed spread this fall First, run unloading auger empty for at Weeds can be seen in elds throughout least one minute. Secondly, open the clean this area. Preventing weed seed from spreadgrain and tailings elevator doors, rock trap ing into clean elds should be considered. and unloading auger sump. Next, start the While typically you want to hand pull or combine and separator. Operate the comhoe weeds out of elds where only a handbine this way for at least two minutes for ful of plants exist, this will not be a viable self-cleaning. Then, clean any material left method for many elds this year. This means in the rock trap. Use a leaf blower or air the nal destination for that weed seed is to compressor to remove material from extebe run through a combine and potentially rior of the combine, focusing on the header, spread wherever that combine roams. With University of combines capable of holding up to 200 MN Extension feederhouse, and axle and straw spreader at pounds of grain and other materials, it is im- by Nathan Drewitz the rear of the machine. Finally, remember to close the doors to the rock trap, clean the portant to help prevent spread.

Preventing weed seed spread prior to combining grain elevator and the unloading auger sump.

The recommended tools for cleanout are usually is always preferable. Where possible, remove problem weeds. For those elds where weeds are too many a vacuum or compressed air. If a pressure washer is to hand pull, consider harvesting those elds last to used some of the residues may become sticky and help prevent the ow of weed seed to clean elds. harder to remove. Also, always make sure to use the Lastly, take time to properly clean your combine be- proper personal protective equipment which includes tween elds, especially if you are coming out of a gloves, protective eyewear, a dust mask with at least eld with weed issues present. Speci c areas to focus an N95 rating and hearing protection.

If you have questions on the above information, on include the header, feederhouse, rocktrap, grain email me at ndrewitz@umn.edu, or call at 608-515tank and unload auger.

The following 30-minute procedure is from a 4414.

To receive future events, educational programpublication by the North Central Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources Academy’s Combine ming, and agronomic updates by email, signup at z.umn.edu/tricountysignup.

Clean Out series.

due to drought, ooding and other natural disasters from page 1B or quarantine.

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For more information about emergency loans, contact your BentonMille Lacs County USDA Service Center at 320968-5300, Ext. 2 or visit fsa.usda.gov.

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SAUK RAPIDS HERALD | SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2021 | Page 3B

BENTON AG

Jureks

MILLE LACS SOIL SERVICE PHOTOS BY NATASHA BARBER

(Ab (Above) Hammer, a Myotonic buck that weighs 194 pounds, stands in a pen at Heavenly Hill Farm Aug. po 29 in rural Foley. Myotonic goats have a genetic condition that increases muscle denisty. co (L (Left) Senior doe, Faberge, is the Myotonic Goat R Registry’s 2019 reserve national champion.

ratio. Myotonics are 4-to1,” Mackenzie said.

Despite their lean bodies, full-size Myotonics are not well-known in Minnesota meat production circles. The Jureks purchase 90% of their seedstock from out-ofstate producers who focus on preserving the breed genetics.

“Minnesota is really behind in the goat industry,” Mackenzie said.

“Around here, producers have been breeding Myotonics with pygmy goats – the small Nigerian Dwarf style. I want the largestyle meat does and bucks.

My smallest doe is 100 pounds.”

Continuing superior genetics while creating a resilient herd is important to the Jurek family. Philip, a crane operator of Landwehr Construction, sometimes travels for work and

Mackenzie has the Ma four children to care for in addition to the livestock. livestoc “My “M goal is I want them to be hardy,” Mackenzie said. “I don’t want to have to baby them. …

We want them to fend for themselves.”

With that in mind, each day the bucks and does receive one ration of feed – a mixture of corn, oats, molasses and supplements. Additionally, the animals have access to pasture in the summer and hay or high-grade alfalfa in the winter. The family’s show goats follow the same regime and receive no special treatment.

“I want to be able to pull any of these animals out to do well in the show ring,” Mackenzie said.

Mackenzie has come by her knowledge of goat diet and husbandry though networking with others and reading on her own, but being involved in the MGR shows has advanced the Jureks’ herd as oftentimes members are sound-

ing boards for questions and complications.

“The rst couple of years we had a lot of blows,” Mackenzie said.

“We lost a lot of money, but we’ve learned. …

Producers are constantly learning from each other.

We’re always communicating with what we do, and we want people to see their goals in their own herds.”

One goal of Heavenly Hill Farm is to heighten herd pedigree.

“In the coming years, more animals will probably be sold for meat just because our knowledge of the breed has increased,” Philip said. “What we look for to keep for breeding stock is more stringent. If we wouldn’t keep it on our farm, we are not going to sell it; we’ll send it to market.”

Mackenzie agreed.

“We have high expectations for our goat herd,” she said.

Expectations that hopefully result in more national champions.

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Myotonia congenita is a gene mutation that causes stiffness and the inability for muscles to quickly relax after voluntary movement. Similar to how a person might “freeze” when startled or anxious, these goats may lock-up or faint when faced with an uncomfortable situation.

“If you run or chase them, they lock up, they stumble,” Mackenzie said, noting that the severity of the disease ranges from goat to goat.

Given the vululnerability of the breed, reed, Myotonic goats were re often used to protect prime herds of cattle and ocks of sheep, Mackenzie said.

“A lot of people didn’t want their animals to be killed, so they put a Myotonic in with the herd,” she said. “When a coyote would come, the Myotonic was the scapegoat. The coyote would attack that goat and the rest of the animals would run away.”

Philip agreed.

“The true meaning of the sacri cial lamb,” he said.

To ward off predators at the Jurek farm, the family keeps two pairs of large dogs within the goat pens. The Anatolian Pyrenees are gentle giants when it comes to the Jurek children, but the dogs are staunch protectors of the herd, standing upwards of 30 inches tall and weighing up to 140 pounds. The Jureks said the canines have fended off animals ranging from cats to coyotes, hawks to skunks and even bears.

“These dogs are bred to be and live with the goats,” Mackenzie said.

“They’re friendly, but they are not pets; they’re working.”

The same genetic condition that makes the Myotonic breed vulnerable also gives them an advantage when it comes to meat production.

Although slower growing, Myotonic goats have a broader build and increased muscle mass compared to other meat goats.

“A normal meat goat is a 2-to-1 muscle to bone

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from page 1B