Valley Area
Wednesday, June 20, 2018 Thursday, June 21, 2018
SUMMER RECREATION Guide
20 19
Explore outdoors at State Aquatic Management Areas Waters, woods and wildlife can be found in state public areas By PAT BECK
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
If you like going to quiet, scenic places at the end of the road, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources State Aquatic Management Areas are for you. AMAs provide angler and management access, protect critical shore land habitat and provide areas for education and research. AMAs protect lakeshore, streams and wetlands. Some are even islands. Waterville Area Fisheries owns and maintains almost 1,700 acres of land on 30 AMAs in the nine-county area (Le Sueur, Rice, Steele, Blue Earth, Dodge, Freeborn, Mower, Faribault and Waseca). These AMAs range in size from 1.6 acres to over 375 acres. Most AMAs provide hunting and fishing access, but some do not. The Aquatic Management Area program administers more than 700 AMAs and 770 shore land miles in 73 of Minnesota’s 87 counties. Hunting regulations on AMAs are the same as on Wildlife Man-
Krista Hesse of Madison Lake removes a hoook from a rainbow trout she caught in St. Peter Trouts, one of the Aquatic Managment Areas maintened by Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Wateville Area Fisheries.
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Krista Hesse and Justin Leopold, both of Madison Lake, fish in one of the three St. Peter Trout Ponds, one of the gneral Aquatic Managment Areas where th epublic can fish, hunt, trap and observe wildlife. (Pat Beck photos/St. Peter Herald)
agement Areas (WMAs). There are three types of AMAs • General Use: Angling, hunting, trapping, non-motorized travel, and wildlife observation are allowed. • Restricted Use: Angling, non-motorized travel, and wild-
Francis Lake life observation are allowed. NO Area: 25.79 acres HUNTING. Use Type: Restricted • Easement: Only angling is Waterbody: Frances (0 ft) allowed. Waterville area has 30 AMAs The Francis Lake AMA is with nearly 1,700 acres of land. mostly backwater ponding and Le Sueur County has six woodsy area, but there is a trail AMAs: that leads to a small lakeside
shorefishing area where the backwater flows into the main lake. Angling is allowed but not hunting because of the nearby housing. It provides protection for the wetland area and habitat for the lake and the water that flows into it.
The DNR has created a new webpage for finding AMAs and determining what uses are allowed. To see more go to https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/ amas/index.html You can search for an AMA by county or by use type such as hunting or fishing.
Craig Soupir, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources Waterville Area Fisheries supervisor, said it provides spring access to the north shore of the lake and is a popular area to walk out
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AMA: DNR acquires land for public to use Aquatic Management Areas From Page 1C and fish. Francis has good panfish and largemouth bass fishing, along with walleye and northern. Horseshoe Lake Area: 85.2 acres Use Type: General Waterbody: Horseshoe (2,780 ft) Three parking lots are available in the Horseshoe Lake AMA, but it requires a long walk through a meadow and woods to get to the lake. Horseshoe is one of the largest AMAs which provides wetland protection and with the shoreline nearby, it has fishing opportunities, Soupir said. It’s also very popular with hunters. Much of the area was farmland that had been turned into prairies and drain tile was removed which led to a wetland reclamation that filters our water, Soupir said. Horseshoe Lake has good sized bluegill and crappies, plus walleye, northern, largemouth bass and a good population of perch. Savidge Lake Area: 10.29 acres Use Type: General Waterbody: Savidge (1,575 ft) Situated between two farmland areas, Savidge Lake AMA easement along Highway 99 near Cleveland has a parking lot and walking path that leads down to the lake. People can haul in a canoe or use waders to fish in the shallow lake which has a maximum depth of about 4 feet. It often freezes over which causes fish kill, and the DNR nets the walleye in the fall and stocks them in other lakes. Fishing and hunting opportunities are available. Ducks and pheasants are in the area. The lake
Curious cattle graze on the edge of the Savidge Lake State Aquatic Management Area along Highway 99 in Cleveland. The farmland is separated from the AMA by fences. At right is a walking trail easement that provides public access down to the lake where fishing and hunting (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)
Lake Francis AMA features a trail leading through a woods to a wetland area with backwater ponds (right) on one side flowing into the main lake (left). Abundant waterfowl, including geese can be observed, but hunting is not allowed because of the close proximity to private homeowners. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)
is used as a walleye rearing pond, so sometimes walleyes can be caught. It also has bullheads. The parking lot and pubic access were completed last year for people to use the lake. It’s used for hunting and mostly for ice fishing, Soupir said. “A lot of times you can catch walleyes there.” St. Peter Area: 27.48 acres Trout Stream: Yes Use Type: General Waterbody: Paul’s Creek (810 ft) The St. Peter AMA, along Ottawas Road, provides some of the best trout fishing in the area with three trout ponds that are stocked annually with rainbows four times in the spring by the DNR. Ample shoreline is available, although it can be crowded on opening day. The cold water trout ponds, used to be the Waterville Area Fisheries Office, allow put and take fishing, a limit of five trout, using
any kind of bait. The area also is utilized for hunting, along with the nearby Ottawa Wildlife Management Area, Soupir said A new gravel road, parking lot and shoreline improvements were made in the past year to make it more accessible. “We raised the level of the road and resurfaced it to prevent potholes,” Soupir said. It had to be closed twice this spring because of flooding, but it will remain open until the trout season ends at the end of October. It will close to vehicle traffic in the winter, to prevent damage during frost, and open again when trout season opens in April. Tetonka Lake Area: 1.81 acres Use Type: General Waterbody: Tetonka (0 ft) Tetonka AMA features a newly graveled single lane road off County Highway 12, near Riverside Drive, that leads to a new
parking lot and trail around the area. No motorized vehicles are allowed. People were driving ATV’s in the area, and it is designed to keep them out. Tetonka is one of the oldest AMAs. It was created for drainage access to the Cannon River, Soupir said. The Cannon River is a popular fishing area in the spring, but the lake is not open to fishing, Soupir said. The DNR is rearing fat head minnows for the hatchery. In the past, it was used as a walleye and northern rearing pond. But there are no game fish in there now. Largemouth bass are abundant in Tetonka. along with fishing for perch, walleye, northern and panfish. The area also is open to hunting Volney Lake Area: 1.64 acres Use Type: General Waterbody: Volney (935 ft) Nearly 1,000 feet of public
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The Tetonka Lake Aquatic Management Area features a new gravel trail around the lake fish spawning area. There also is a new gravel parking lot and road leading to the area. (Pat Beck/ St. Peter Herald)
shoreline is available around Volney Lake off Highway 136, along 400th Street. Shorefishing access is available, but it requires going through heavy covers of trees and brush to get to the water. But Soupir said people can walk into the water with waders and find decent bluegill and crappie fishing. It leads to a dead end, where there is private property. The Volney AMA was created to keep the shoreline from being developed, Soupir said. Most of the lakeshore is privately developed. It also provides fishing access, hunting, mushroom hunters and other outdoor activities. Volney has good panfishing,
along with perch, walleye and northern. Nearby Gorman Lake has a small AMA of a few acres on along Cannon River Road on the Southwest side of the lake that has been used as a northern pike spawning nursery area. The spawning area, in which the lake flows through a culvert under the road, is not open to fishing, but lake side is open. And the Waterville Area Fisheries Area is an AMA with a fishing pier on Lake Tetonka. Reach Sports Editor Pat Beck at 931-8566 or follow him on Twitter.com @SPHSportsPat.
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Waseca and the Valley offer a variety of water activities By BAILEY GRUBISH
bgrubish@wasecacountynews. com
This summer Waseca County and the Valley offer a variety of water activities for all ages. Waseca County is filled with lakes that allow people options when it comes to water activities. There is Lake Elysian, which is located just outside of Janesville, is a place for people to fish and take their boats out. Lakeview Park has a fishing pier for anyone. This is taken care of by the DNR and the city who work together. To reserve a park or more information call Janesville 507234-5110. In Waseca there are two lakes, Clear Lake and Loon Lake. Clear Lake is the larger of the two and also allows for recreational use. At the Clear Lake Park bathhouse there are kayaks, canoes and paddle boards that are able to be rented for $5 an hour. The vessels can be rented Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. including holidays like fourth of July and Labor Day. There will be classes on how to kayak and paddleboard on June 24 through 27 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. or from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Another session of classes will be July 22 through 25 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. or from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. the cost is $35 per person and equipment will be provided. Besides water vessels there are concessions available for purchase at the same site of the bathhouse along with yard games and sports equipment to rent for free during rental hours. Near the bathhouse is a beach,
River Valley Kayak rentals can be taken on the Minnesota River or a nearby lake. (Photo courtesy of River Valley Kayak Facebook)
with no on duty lifeguards, that the public are welcome to swim at with restrooms nearby. Clear Lake also has a popular boat launching area for people to enjoy water skiing, tubing, fishing or leisure boating. Check out Waseca Community Ed’s Facebook for more rental information on Clear Lake. For those looking to visit and camp in Waseca there is Kiesler’s campground and resort on the
south side of Clear Lake. They offer pontoon, boat and motor rentals along with boat docks for rent. These can be used for fishing or cruising the lake. For more information on Kiesler’s campground and resort rental check out the website. There is a fishing pier on Clear Lake that is in Maplewood Park that people are able to fish off of along with a boat launch access for the public.
Valley In the Valley area there are tons of lakes people can visit this summer to escape for a weekend or just an afternoon. Elysian Elysian is home to several popular lakes. Lake Elysian is found just outside of Janesville and stretches all the way to Elysian where there are more access points for fishing and recreational use.
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the public. Scoop’s Ice Cream in Elysian rents kayaks that can be used on the lakes in the area like Lake Elysian or Lake Francis. Scoop’s will also shuttle groups of six or more to the Cannon River to kayak. “It’s kind of a novelty,” Joe Meixl said. “There are lots and lots of cottages, lots of tourists and campgrounds in Elysian.”
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Lake Francis has two public boat launching areas for all types of boats and jet skis. This lake is known for its fishing and recreational use on the 797 acre lake. People can be seen fishing, water skiing, tubing or cruising the lake. Ray’s Lake Park is located outside of Elysian and overlooks Ray’s Lake. There is 3,000 feet of shoreline on the lake, a fishing pier and a launch area open to
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WATER: Many lakes, rivers to recreate on the water in South Central Minnesota From Page 3C
Meixl went on to say that he thinks Elysian is Minnesota’s best kept secret in Southern Minnesota. Check out prices and more on Scoop’s website. Le Center Le Center has parks near or connected to lakes that will keep the whole family occupied this summer. Lake Volney Park in Le Center has 600 feet of shoreline, a boat ramp and a path to access the lake just beyond the restored shoreline. Clear Lake Park is located on the west side of Clear Lake near a boat ramp. Winjum’s Shady Acres of Le Center allows visitors to experience the outdoors and fishing of Clear Lake. This lake is known for panfish, walleye and bass. At Winjum’s Shady Acres there is dock space for campers to bring their own boats along with boat access nearby. For more information on camping at Clear Lake check out Winjum’s Shady Acres website. Le Sueur area River Valley Kayaks has no physical business location but is out of Le Sueur area and will set a location meeting spot for customers. Kayaks can be rented for a trip down the Minnesota River or on an area lake and transportation to the launch location will be provided with the gear. “Our goal is to enable our customers to get out and have fun on the water without the high cost of ownership, which includes kayaks, life jackets, paddles, trailers or roof racks, maintenance and storage costs,” stated the River
Valley Kayaks website. River Valley Kayaks is for experts, beginners; all levels of kayaking experience. The trips are all self-guided tours with the option to pay for a guide if needed. Typical river trips use the Minnesota River and either start from St. Peter or Le Sueur and end in Le Sueur or Henderson Kayaking can be for all ages so it could be a family outing. The age River Valley Kayaks recommends for a single traveler is 10 to 12 years-old. If they are younger River Valley Kayaking says that, children tend to get bored and tired out from paddling but the parents know their child best. The business offers tandem kayaks for two to three people as well that may be a better option for young kids. The typical length of the trip down the river can vary depending on the speed of the river, paddle strides and how often a group stops. Generally River Valley Kayaks doesnt put a time restriction on rentals unless there is another group later in the day. For more rental and trip information check out the River Valley Kayak website. Henderson Station River Access and Park is located in Le Sueur on the banks of the Minnesota River near Henderson. It is a 52-acre park with picnic shelter and tables and spots to fish. This park also allows access to the river for kayaking and canoeing. St. Peter Hallett’s Pond is located in Saint Peter. This offers a fishing spot in town along with space to kayak and canoe. Lake Emily Park in St. Peter is on the south side of Lake Emily and has a fishing dock and 1,000
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The fishing pier at Lakeview Park for the public to use. (File photo)
feet of shoreline for fishing. Riverside Municipal Campground is located within the 120 acre Riverside Park on the banks of the Minnesota River in St. Peter. The park contains nearly 2,000 feet of frontage on the Minnesota River and its related backwaters. The campground offers a designated state canoe route as well Riverside park amenities include a river access boat landing, playground, picnic shelters, picnic tables, volleyball courts,
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restroom/shower facilities and a two-acre fishing pond. For more information on the campground and park check out its website. Reach Reporter Bailey Grubish at 507-837-5451 or follow her on Twitter @wcnbailey. ©Copyright 2018 APG Media of Southern Minnesota. All rights There are kayaks and canoes for rent at the bathhouse located reserved. in Waseca in Clear Lake Park. (Photo courtesy of Waseca Community Education Facebook page)
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Waseca and the Valley offer numerous youth art opportunities By BAILEY GRUBISH
bgrubish@wasecacountynews. com
Waseca and the Valley area have a number of youth art opportunities for kids to participate in this summer. Waseca art options Waseca Community Education has a variety of classes to offer kids in Waseca. Andrew Breck, Waseca Art Centers Intermerim Director, will be hosting a photography club at the art center four times over the summer. “Part of what I want to bring to the organization is more class offerings for the community,” Breck said. Each session will be from 10:30 a.m. to noon with a different focus at each meeting. This class is for seventh and eighth grades and is $5 each session. The club will meet June 5 and 19 and July 3 and 17. “When I was a student growing up I, remember taking some of these classes and they really shaped who I became and what I went to school for and I wanted the same opportunities for the students now that I had,” Breck said. The students are responsible for bringing their own digital camera or camera phone or ipod/ ipad. Session one will be about technique, scale, proportion, subject, color and black and white. Though the first session has taken place these are not linear classes so students may come for all or one of the classes. Session two, June 19, is about natural light versus artificial light. Session three, July 3, will require a tripod mount for the device each
Susan Seming Siegmann taught students make and take classes in the past with the St. Peter Community Ed. (Photo courtesy of Saint Peter Community and Family Education Facebook)
student brings. In this session techniques with the tripod will be taught along with motion blur and light trails. Session four, July 17, is for editing techniques and printing options. “In the class we are doing a little bit more of a nut and bolts aspect of photography, covering a little bit of everything…,” Breck said. “It’s only an hour and a half class so not a lot of time to get into it, but if I can show the students how to use the camera and not to
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be afraid of it...they can use it how they wish.” On Wednesday June 12 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Central building second floor conference room, Nikki Kasper will be teaching a marbleizing technique. All of the supplies are included for the personalized mug marbleizing but if there is a specific color someone is looking for they are encouraged to bring it. This class has a minimum age of 10 years old, costs $15 and registration is
required. The Waseca Art Center is hosting its annual young art explorers camp June 18 through June 21. Each day will begin at 9:30 a.m. and go until 11:30 a.m. for kindergarten through third graders. This camp does require a registration and has a cost of $50. The camp covers a different topic each day and there will be an art opening for the artists and their families. The topics for this year’s young
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art explorers camp offer a variety of mediums. “Paint like Pollock” will be a group mural project using paint, string, markers and wild abandonment. “Lions, Tigers, and Bears, oh my” will allow students to create a zoo worthy assemblage of 3-D animals. “Pickles, Onions, Cheese..What will it be?” gives the kids a chance to create their favorite pop art sandwich for display. The final topic will be a “Dream Catcher,” where they will ;earn
about the history and create using yarn, beads and other objects. “Button, Button, Who’s Got The Button” is a class offered on Wednesday, July 24 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the conference room on the second floor of the Central building. This class is for a minimum age of 10 years old with registration required and a $10 fee. Kasper will be leading this class as well to help kids use buttons that they may have lying around with no purpose. There will be lots ideas shared about incorporating buttons into crafting. Kids will be able to choose one craft item to make in class — a colorful headband, a buttonaccented pin, Bobby pins, hair binders, Heart-shaped ornament or magnets. Another class option with two class dates is knitting for beginners and is free. This class will be held at the Waseca Art Center on August 15 and 22 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. There is still an enrollment on the Community ed website. Gladys Carlson will be leading the classes for second through fifth graders. The first class is meant to give the kids a hands on opportunity to learn the basics of knitting to create a scarf, hat or custom project using a pattern. Participants are required to bring their own materials which is 1 skein of worsted yarn, medium weight and a needle size 8,9 or 10. There will be limited yarn and needle supplies. The second class is meant to be a follow-up for the first class after giving the kids a week to practice.
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ARTS: Loads of ways to get creative in arts classes in Minnesota River Valley Area From Page 5C
This will be a time for them to ask Carlson questions and explore additional techniques. For more youth art classes through Community Ed check out its website. Valley Youth Art options The Valley area also has many youth art opportunities this summer. St. Peter “We are really excited to be able to offer a variety of visual art, theater, and music classes for students,” Community & Family Education Director I Saint Peter Public Schools Tami Skinner said. “Participating in art enrichment has excellent benefits. Students learn problem-solving skills, patience and creativity. They also learn the value of practice and goal setting, which leads to better self-esteem and confidence. Studies also show a link between art enrichment and academic gains in the core subjects of math and reading.” In St. Peter a Busy as Bees make and take project will be taught by Susan Seming Siegmann June 10 and 11 from 10 a.m. to noon in the St. Peter Middle School art room. She will teach the basics of drawing, painting and clay sculpting in these art classes. This class will be for students who have completed any grade between first and fifth grade. There is a registration required and a $46 fee. The class will be using animator’s clay to create a bee mounted on a canvas scene of a beehive. Students in second through fourth grade will be able to explore, create and dive into virtual and augmented reality this summer. Angie Potts will be hosting a class June 24 through 26 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the St. Peter
Kids participating in the past class “Watch Me Draw: Parent and Child Picasso.” This summer kids can continue to work on their art skills in “Busy Bees make and take” class working on drawing, painting and clay skills. (Photo courtesy of Saint Peter Community and Family Education Facebook)
Middle School. This class will use tools like Merge Cube, Virtual Reality headsets, Co-Spaces and 360 cameras. The students will be able to create their own content to share. This class requires students to be registered by June 17 and there is a $32 fee. More youth art opportunities in St. Peter go to the Community Ed website. Le Center
Kids ages four to nine can create a3D Candy Land board. The class is on Wednesday, June 19 from 9 a.m. to noon at the TCU Le Center Primary Building Conference room and has a $42 fee. The class also asks that the kids have their own nut free snack and a drink packed. How to Draw a Puppy is a class offered at TCU Le Center Primary Conference room on Wednesday, August 21 from 9 a.m. to noon.
This class will teach five to 12 year olds how to draw a puppy using a simple step-by-step process with the final project being painted on canvas board. This class requires a registration and has a fee of $42. For more classes in Montgomery or Le Center check out the summer catalog. Le Sueur-Henderson Le Sueur-Henderson Community Education department has
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been without a programs director for about 6 months but that has not stopped them from putting on an extensive list of class opportunities this summer. “We try to offer a lot of classes for the summer to keep the kids busy…,” Community Ed secretary and class organizer Pat Willaert said. “We try to get options for kids throughout the summer.” “I think we have a good selec-
tion of classes here,” Willaert said. Through the Le Sueur-Henderson Community Ed. Melissa Goettl will have hosting a stamp jewelry class. In this class students will be able to make their own keychain and necklace. This class is for ages 9 to 12 years old and will be Tuesday, July 9 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in the Le Sueur Henderson High/Middle school room 101. Registration for this class closes on July 2 and there is a $28 fee. The Best Ever Art Camp is another option for five to 12 year-olds and offers a variety of different projects like snow globes that glow-inthe-dark or clay masterpieces. This camp is July 11 and 12 from 9 a.m. to noon at Park Elementary in art room 151. Each day two projects will be completed by the kids. Registration closes July 3 and has a fee of $60. Community Ed also asks that the kids are sent with a nut free snack and drink for during the camp. For more information check out the Le Sueur- Henderson summer Community Ed brochure. Montgomery Old McDonald Had a Farm is a class that combines music and art for ages 18 months to 6 years old. The class will create a barnyard scene inspired by the song “Old McDonald Had a Farm.” This class will be Friday August 9 from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at TCU Montgomery room 105. This class has a fee of $25 and all kids must be accompanied by a caregiver. Nemo’s World is for kids 18 months old to 6 years old to create an underwater world that glows in the dark. This class is on Friday, July 12 from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at TCU Montgomery room 105 and has a fee of $25. Caregivers must accompany the child.
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TCU soccer club excited to watch program grow with new high school team By ASHLEY MURTHA
amurtha@lesueurcountynews. com
With the Tri-City United School Board finally approving a soccer program for the high school and having enough kids to fill the teams, the current TCU soccer club is excited to see the growth. “We’re really excited,” the soccer club director Erin Barry said. “We have some older players who are going to be on the team and they’re really excited about it. It’s a good thing.” This is the second attempt that the district has made at creating a soccer program at the high school. The first attempt was just over a year ago when the board approved a junior varsity team during its May 29, 2018 meeting but stipulated that there needed to be at least 20 students signed up for each boys and girls team. As the approval was so close to the summer, it was extremely difficult for then-new Activities Director Chad Johnson to get players to sign up for the teams. By the end of the summer, there simply weren’t enough students registered and the district could not have a team for the fall of 2018. But this year Johnson had more time. “I think part of (this year’s success) was just having a little bit more time to talk with students and families,” Superintendent Teri Preisler said in April. With the knowledge that the board would likely approve the team, Johnson set out again this year, early, to get kids registered
The Tri-City United soccer club hosted a clinic on Saturday, May 18 for kids of various ages. (Submitted photo)
for the program and eventually came up with more than enough to fill the teams. With that covered, the board formally approved the program at its May 13 board meeting this year with no stipulations and now Johnson has been busy putting together a schedule of games for the teams. With the new program at the high school, Barry is hoping to see growth in the summer youth program in the future. “We’re hoping it’ll help build our program and we can help build the high school team,” Barry said. “I think it’ll grow for both programs.” The TCU soccer club generally focuses on younger players in kindergarten through eighth grade
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whereas the high school team will be a junior varsity team consisting of players in ninth through 12th grade, until there can be a varsity team made. “It won’t affect (our numbers) because it’s a different age group,” Barry said. “Players on that team are too old for our program.” But with the possibility of continuing to play the sport, Barry hopes the club will see an increase in numbers for the older teams. “We typically have less players on the older teams because it requires more commitment as they get older,” Barry said. The older teams have chances to go to recreational tournaments that are outside of the Montgomery-Le Center-Lonsdale area as well as one in-house tournament
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for the U10 team. But on top of that, Barry also hopes that the older teams can get into a competitive league to coincide with the high school’s competitive team. “We want to see our groups become more competitive,” Barry said. “Right now we’re just recreation.” Barry said that only the older teams in the club could become competitive while the younger teams will stay recreational. She said that her program wants to be competitive in order to gain more excitement as well as more games for the kids. “Being competitive entices more players and gets them more excitement,” Barry said. “It’s also easier for us to get them games
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if they are a competitive team. There are more competitive teams around us than there are recreational teams.” If the teams do become competitive in the coming years, they will most likely be in the Southern District through the Minnesota Youth Soccer Association with teams like Waseca, St. Peter, Owatonna, Northfield, Le Sueur and New Prague. Barry also said that being more competitive will hopefully give the kids more ability for the high school team as they look to move up. But for now, the club is focusing on their summer season. Practices and games have already started for the TCU soccer club program. There were
19 teams this year and there has already been a coach’s clinic and a player’s clinic for them through the program as well as many games. The club will wrap up their season and activities on June 27 with the annual Soccer Jamboree. Reach Reporter Ashley Murtha at 507-931-8572.
If You Go TCU soccer club Jamboree will be held 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, June 27 at TCU-Montgomery for all those who participated in the soccer program this summer.
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Thursday, June 20, 2019
Tri-City United Summer Recreation events galore Aqua Noodle Stretch Yoga Emphasizing symmetry of mind, body, and soul. It improves strength imbalances, adds more flexibility, improves mood and sleep. Great for rehabilitating from back and knee injuries. Modifications provided for all fitness levels and ages. Aqua barbells and belt provided. Doors open 15 minutes before class. Drop ins allowed only if a minimum of 6 full class registrations is reached. $8 drop in fee. Mon. Jul.1 — Jul. 29, 6:30-7:30 pm TCU Pool Tadpoles Ages 2-4 years. For children who have not entered Kindergarten, are shorter than 42 inches or are unfamiliar or fearful of water. An adult must accompany each child in pool. Waterproof pants must be worn over all diapers or swim diapers. Jun. 24 — 27 Noon-12:45 pm Jul.22 — 25, 6-6:45 p.m. TCU Pool located at TCU MontgomeryUse courtyard doors. Little Swimmers Ages 4 1/2 & up. For the child who is ready for their first independent swimming experience, but not yet through Kindergarten. Swimmers must be 42 inches tall and at least 4 1/2 years old. Jun.24 — 27, 11:15 a.m .-noon Jul. 22 — 25, 7-7:45 pm, TCU Pool located at TCU MontgomeryUse courtyard doors Tennis Beginners — no experience. You will learn the basics of forehand, back hand, scoring, and serving. Please bring a tennis racket, tennis shoes, water bottle. Friday will be the only make up day if needed.tennis racket, tennis shoes, water bottle. Mon. — Thu., Jul.8-11, 5:30 — 6:30 pm at Le Center Tennis Courts. Mon.-Thu., Jul.15 — 18 Lonsdale Tennis Courts
Advanced Beginners/Intermediate Have 1 to 3 years experience. Play singles, doubles and learn placement of the ball on the court. Play matches and learn the fine points of serving, backhand and forehand. Bring a tennis racket, tennis shoes, water bottle. Friday will be the only make up day if needed. Mon.- Thu. Jul. 8-11, 6:45-8:15 p.m. at Le Center Tennis Courts. Mon.-Thu., Jul. 15-18, 6:458:15 p.m. at Lonsdale Tennis Courts. Volleyball Camp Gr. 4 — 8 in (2018-2019) Get a jump start on the fall volleyball season. This educational camp will help the young volleyball athlete learn and sharpen basic volleyball skills, including passing, serving, setting and hitting. Instruction will not be position-specific, but will instead focus on developing well rounded players. Participants can expect to learn correct technique in fun group drills and one-on-one with coaches. Fee includes lunch and shirt. Free lunch is available and served by the school. We will have fundamentals and drills from 8 — 11:30 and after a lunch break we will have scrimmages from noon to 1 pm. Register by June 28 for shirt. Wed., Jul.10, 8 a.m. -1 p.m., Gr. 4 & 5 TCU Montgomery Elem Gym Wed., Jul. 10, 8:00 a.m. — 1:00 p.m. Gr. 6 — 8 TCU Montgomery MS Gym. Youth Bowling For beginners Learn the fun and exciting sport that you can enjoy your whole life. In this course you’ll learn bowling technique including approach, timing, delivery, scoring and etiquette. A great introduction to the most popular participation sport in the U.S. Fee includes bowling shoes. Instructed by Chris Reak owner PlaMor Lanes, YABA Certified Coach
Good Luck
to all Tri-City United sports athletes for a successful summer!
507.364.7762 Mon.- Thu., Jul. 29 — Aug. 1, 10:00 — 11:00 am Pla-Mor Lanes, Montgomery. Kickball Ages 5 — 10. Kickball is all about the fun. Similar to baseball, this playground favorite is played with traditional baseball rules and a few extra quirky rules mixed in. Instead of a bat and ball, kids kick, catch, throw and dodge an 8” playground ball, meaning that anyone can join in and have a great time. Sports Unlimited Camps provide fundamental skill development for boys and girls ages 5-12 with the emphasis on FUN! The camp helps players learn and practice the core skills and techniques used in each sport and then allow them to practice these skills in a number of games and scrimmages. Campers will be divided by age and skill level. Fee includes sports Unlimited water bottle. Bring/wear sunscreen, water bottle, snack and appropriate dress Mon.- Thu., Jun.24 — 27, 1:00 — 4 p.m. at TCU Lonsdale Elem BB-SB Field. SNAG Golf Ages 5 — 10 This Sports Unlimited golf program was created to meet the growing needs of the new generation of young golfers. Sports Unlimited uses SNAG (Starting New At Golf) equipment which involves golf clubs with oversized plastic heads and (tennis size) velcro golf balls to help kids develop the skills of hitting the ball. This special equipment is specifically designed for the entry level player. The camps are based on the philosophy of providing children ages 5-10 with the opportunity to develop sports skills in a fun, safe and non-competitive environment. We will instruct the fundamentals of grip, stance, swing, ball contact, putting, chipping and
driving. Children will be divided by age and skill level. No prior golf experience is necessary. All equipment is provided. Sports Unlimited Camps provide fundamental skill development for boys and girls ages 5-12 with the emphasis on FUN! The camp helps players learn and practice the core skills and techniques used in each sport and then allow them to practice these skills in a number of games and scrimmages. Campers will be divided by age and skill level. Please bring/wear sunscreen, water bottle, snack and appropriate dress. Mon. — Thu. Jul.29 -Aug.1, 9 a.m. -noon, Sticha Park, 515 Industrial Dr. SE, Lonsdale. Okinawan Karate and Kobudo Lessons Age 7 to adult Attend classes one or two times a week — you pick the days. Learn Okinawan Shorin Ryu Karate and Ryukyu Kobudo from instructors trained in Japan. Karate is for all ages. Classes include stretching, basics, forms, self-defense techniques derived from the forms, and sport sparring. Kobudo is for ages 12 and up who have experience in Karate. All grades are recognized by the association headquarters in Okinawa. Classes are held year round. Individual rankings are available in both arts. The style of Karate taught is Okinawan Shorinryu. It is one of the original forms of Karate in Okinawa. Mon. and/or Fri. Jul. 8 -29 67:30 p.m. Mon. and/or Fri. Aug.2-30, 6-7:30 p.m. at Lonsdale Civic Center, 116 Alabama Ave SE., Lonsdale. Tim Jurgens — The chief instructor is a 7th Degree Black Belt Karate and 6th Degree Black Belt in Kobudo who has competed at world levels and won international championships.
Good Luck Teams!
Free Outdoor Family Movie Night Keep cool on a hot summer night! Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy a great family movie under the stars! Cool down and have fun under the stars with this year’s movie, “Scooby Doo and the Creepy Carnival”! Movie starts right after 9 pm and will be shown on the south side of the school by the playground. School doors will not be open. Free popcorn available. If wet, raining or too windy, the movie will not be held. Thu. Jul. 25, 9:00 — 10:00 pm Clay Target Clinic Ages 12 — 17. Must have Firearm Safety Certificate. Each participant will shoot 50 targets each night. We will work on fundamentals of firearms safety, trap shooting and wobble trap. This is shotgun clay target shooting only and only target load shot shells with 7 1/2 and smaller shot will be allowed. Recommended firearms would be 12 & 20 gauge shotguns. The location would be the Montgomery Sportsman Club range , right off of HWY 21 next to Seneca. Fee includes clays and T-shirt. Please give us your size when registering. Register by June 30 for a t-shirt. Participants provide their own ammo and shotgun. Participants will also need hearing protection and safety glasses. Wed. Aug.7, Aug. 14, Aug. 21 6:00 — 8 p.m. Montgomery Sportsman’s Club Range. Fencing Gr. 2 — 8. For students entering 2-8 grades. Youth Enrichment League fencing has evolved. Olympic coach Ro Sobalvarro now heads up YEL’s curriculum, instructor training and tournament consultation. Coach Sobalvarro brings with him an immense knowledge of youth, national and international
fencing. We keep it fun, too. Your instructors come with knowledge, skills and of course your favorite fencing games and arm bands. Safety is our first priority. We supply safety swords, protective masks, chest plates and jackets, in a high octane, inclusive environment. Visit YouthEnrichmentLeague.com for a more thorough explanation of our fencing program, coaches and philosophy. Sign up today to join this sport deemed the “sport of the intellectual athlete”! Mon.- Thu., Aug.12 — 15, 9:00 am — Noon TCU Montgomery Auditorium. Family Archery Ages 9+ Learn how to shoot safely with an instructor while competing in fun games. Designed for beginner to intermediate archers. All equipment provided. Ages 9+. Registration required. Sat., Aug.10, 10 a.m. — Noon at Rezac Nature Preserve, 7840 Garfield Avenue, Lonsdale. Ninja Camp Ages 4-8. Get ready for a challenge. This exciting camp is three hours each day for boys and girls ages 4-8. This new class will give participants an opportunity to have fun testing their skills while going through various obstacles: tunnel crawl, cone weave, noodles crawl, mat rolls, parachute run, fitness ladders, hula hoop jump and hurdles. A different course is set up each day. Who will be Ninja Warrior of the Day? These fun activities will help your child develop coordination, flexibility and also, beneficial for each child’s physical and mental development. Campers will receive a water bottle and a sportsmanship award at the end of camp. Mon. — Thu., Jul.15 -18, 9 a.m. — Noon TCU Montgomery Track and Field.
Good Luck Teams!
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Thursday, June 20, 2019
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PAGE 9
St. Peter Summer Rec highlights include fishing contest Annual Free Fishing Contest All ages. Grab your fishing pole and bait and meet at the Mill Pond to fish for prizes. Win prizes in a variety of categories like The First Fish, Youngest Angler, Weirdest Bait, Coolest fishing Pole and more! Don’t miss your chance to catch the “BIG ONE.” Thu., Jul. 12, 2-3:30 p.m., Mill Pond Area at Riverside Park. No registration necessary. Event cancelled if rain. Family Pickleball Clinic All ages. Bring the whole family to this free clinic to learn the fundamentals of an activity perfect for all ages. Pickleball is a sport which combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis. This program is designed for participants who are learning the basic fundamentals of the game. The court is the same dimensions as a doubles badminton court and is played with a hard paddle and a ball similar to the plastic wiffle ball. Equipment is provided. Tues., Jun. 26, 6-7:30 p.m. SPCC gym. Annual Watermelon Feed at the Pool Slices and slices of fresh, juicy watermelon for everyone. Wed., Jun. 27 3 p.m. Free for all ages, picnic area west side of the pool. Bark in the Park Barking all dogs. Dogs, kids and adults-this event is for you. Enjoy an evening at the dog park full of fun and games. This event is a fundraiser for improvements to come, donations are welcome. Tue., Jul. 24, 6-8 p.m. Saint Peter Dog Park Save the Date for Grandparent’s Day — Friday, Sep. 7 Grandma, Grandpa, Nana, Papa, Opa and Oma...bring the
St. Peter Rec. Leader Michael Connor helps Vera Ove, 6, as she sets the hook to catch a sunfish in the kids fishing contest last year at the Mill Pond. She caught three fish. (Photo by Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)
special “grand” in your life and celebrate two generations. Enjoy Crafts, BINGO, interactive fitness activities and a photo booth. Coffee, lemonade and a light snack will be provided. Bring out the kid in all of us. Please register at the Recreation Office. Call (507) 9340667 for questions. Fri., Sep., 7, 10-11:30 a.m.,
Good Luck Teams!
$4 per couple, $1 per additional guests, SPCC Rm. 219. Summer Celebration and Night to Unite Free for all ages. End summer the right way, FUN. Submerge your favorite Rec staff member in the Dunk Tank, Splash around in the outdoor pool (free admission). Jump around inside the
Bounce House. Compete for prizes at the Tennis Ball Toss. St. Peter Police will be on site to promote the importance of knowing your neighbors. Participate in crime prevention activities, finger printing, tour emergency vehicles, sign up for door prizes. Various food items will be available for purchase.
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Tue., Aug. 7, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Veteran’s Park, Outdoor pool and grounds. Microstars Ages 3-6 (Pre-K). A little soccer, some T-ball, flag football and a lot of fun. Boys and girls will learn the basic skills and rules for each sport. Parents are encouraged to participate with their
children. Tue.-Thu., Jun. 26-28, 6-6:50 p.m., Gorman Park. Princess/Prince Dance Camp Ages 3-5. Summer camp is a perfect way to introduce dance to your child before the dance year. We’ll introduce music and movement through basic dance and creative movement activities. Learn basic techniques for ballet and jazz. Introduction to tumbling. Parents are invited to the last class at 5:40 p.m. to watch their prince/princess perform a small routine (in princess/princes attire, of course). Practice attire recommended: tights, leotard, tutu (for those that enjoy them), and black ballet shoes however leggings and a shirt will work. No jeans, please. Mo n . - T h u . , Au g . 6 - 9 , 5-5:55 p.m. at SPCC, Rm. 310A Mon.-Thu., Aug. 20-23, 5-5:55 p.m., SPCC, Rm. 310A Gustie Football Camp Completed Gr. 2-7. Participate in drills and lean positionspecific skills. Includes games and competions in a fun and positive environment. Bring cleats, tennis shoes, swim trunks, and a snack. For more information plese visit: gustiefootballcamps.com Thu. & Fri., Jun. 21 & 22, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at South End Zone at the Gustavus Football Field (Hollingsworth Field). Saints Football Camp Completed Gr. 3-8. Register for this skills and drills football camp led by SPHS coaches and players. Learn SPHS Saints program drills and position specific skills. The camp will also include games and competitions in a fun and positive environment. Bring cleats (recommended but not a
See RECREATION on 10C
Good Luck Athletes! LE SUEUR
COUNTY NEWS 62 E Minnesota St., Le Center MN 507-357-2233
24 Hours a Day | 7 Days A Week
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Valley Sports Preview
necessity), athletic wear, and a water bottle. To ensure receiving a camp shirt, please give your child’s shirt size and register by Fri., June 29. Tus.-Thu., Jul. 17-Jul. 19 at St. Peter High School practice fields. Completed Gr. 3-5, 8:3010 a.m. Completed Gr. 6-8, 10:30 a.m.12 p.m. Fencing Completed Grades 2-12. New and returning students invited. Your favorite instructors return with more knowledge, refined coaching skills and, of course, your favorite fencing games and arm bands. Students will learn the rules, footwork and blade work, advanced concepts of attack and defense, and apply what they’ve learned in one-on-one bouts. Safety is our first priority. We supply safety swords, protective masks, chest plates and jackets, in a high-octane, inclusive environment. Mon.-Thu., Jul. 23-26, SPCC Gym Completed Grades 2-5, 9 a.m.12 p.m. Completed Grades 6-12, 2-5 p.m. Coach K Basketball Camp Entering Gr. K-6. Coach K’s 4th annual basketball camp focuses on teaching the fundamentals of the game, promoting each individual to improve, and to have a lot of fun playing the game with friends and future high school teammates. Daily and weekly prizes for individual/team competitions. Pick up and drop off registration forms at the St. Peter Recreation Office. Mon/-Thu., Aug. 6-9, SPCC Gym Entering Gr. 3-6, 8-10 a.m. Coed Entering Gr. K-2, 10:1511:15 a.m. Coed Dancing Stars Dance Camp
Ages 6 and up. Summer camp is a perfect way to introduce dance to your child before the dance year. Camp is designed for older dancers ready to take their dance to the next level. Parents are invited to the last class at 6:40 p.m. to watch their dancer perform a short routine. For practice attire, we recommend tights, leotard, and black ballet shoes however leggings and a shirt will work. No jeans, please. Mon.-Thu. 6-9, 6-6:55 p.m. at SPCC Rm. 310A Horse Camp Completed Grades 2-6. Camp is structured to provide campers with a fun experience interacting with horses. Learn about proper care for the horses, participate in interactive learning games and crafts, and , of course,enjoy riding lessons. Water and a snack will be provided by Pinewood Stables. Please drop our child off by 8:30 a.m. wearing long pants (no leggings) and closed-toed shoes. Bring a sack lunch. Register at the Recreation Office. Mon.-Thu. 23-26, 8:30 a.m.2 p.m. at Pinewood Stables, 44910 Golf Course Road, St. Peter. Youth Pickleball Kindergarten and up! The fastest growing sport in America is for all ages. Participate in this 6-week league. Pickleball is a sport whichcombines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis. This program is designed for participants who are learning the basic fundamentals of the game. The court is the same dimensions as a doubles badminton court and is played with ahardpaddle and a ball similar to the plastic whiffle ball. all equipment is provided. Register with the Recreation Office 934-0667. Tue., Jul. 10-Aug. 14, 1011:30 a.m. Thu., Jul. 12-Aug. 16, 1011:30 a.m.
Thursday, June 20, 2019
Marit and John Kvamme of St. Peter get their grandson Liam Kvamme, 6, ready for fishing last year in the kids fishing contest at the Mill Pond. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)
St. Peter Youth Tackle Football Entering Fr. 5-6. Part of the Mankato/North Mankato Football League Coordinated by SPHS Football Coach Brian Odland. St. Peter students will play on St. Peter teams. Those not attending St. Peter schools will be placed on Mankato teams. Players will be divided into 5th grade and 6th grade teams and play teams from Mankato, Blue Earth, and Fairmont. Online registrationat www. MNMYF.com. Practices in St. Peter begin Mon. Aug. 13 and are held weekly on Mon., Tue., Thu. Games played on Sat. mornings in Mankato from Sat., Sep. 1-Oct. 13
Three-year-old Oliver Enz’s parents, Kristin Enz and Ken Kotmick, of St. Peter get his line ready to fish last year in the kids fishing contest Friday at the Mill Pond. (Pat beck/st. Peter Herald)
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Thursday, June 20, 2019
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PAGE 11
Shoreland Country Club professional/manager Jason Harrell instructs Leah Boomgaarden, 10, in the Shoreland Junior Golf Camp. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)
Junior golf camp becomes more popular If You Go
By PAT BECK
pbeck@stpeterherald.com
Golf is becoming a more popular sport with young people, especially girls, in the St. Peter area. The St. Peter High School team attracted a record 22 girls this spring, and the Shoreland Junior Golf Camp June 3-7 had a record 46 players, with about a third girls. Typically there has been an average of 30 players. The junior camp is split into two age groups. The 7 to 10 group had 31 players, and the 11 to 14 group had 15 players. Shoreland Club professional/ manager Jason Harrell said interest has spread among friends and family. And some just want to try out the sport. The growth in number of girls at the high school level is not always the case at other schools, which often don’t have enough numbers to field a complete team.
The Shoreland Junior Golf Camp is held each year after school is out. This year’s camp ran June 3-7 from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. for 7- to 10-year-olds, and from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. for 11- to 14-year-olds. Register with St. Peter Recreation and Leisure Services.
“We’re definitely seeing more girls,” Harrell said. “Golf is so social that you get a few girls into it, and their friends want to try it. And it grows from there. We’ve kind of seen that over the last few years. This is my sixth year here doing this. You’re seeing more and younger ones trying out.” The camp instruction starts from the greens to the tees. The campers spend the first day on the putting green. Then on the second day they hit chip shots into a
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Parent/instructor James Miller gives a fist pump to Mackenzie Borer, 7, after she hit a good shot. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)
basket about 30 yards away, and then they hit a little farther pitch shots. Then on Wednesday they hit drivers and longer shots. After they hit a bucket of balls, they run out and pick the balls up like an Easter egg hunt. They end each day putting for suckers stuck in the ground. If they hit a sucker with the ball, they win it. “We always start and end on the putting green because that’s
the most important area where people need to practice,” Harrell said. “We play games throughout the day.” On Thursday and Friday, they actually go on the course and play a few holes. Harrell likes to keep his instruction simple for the young kids. “I like to get them set up and give them a few things, line them up with the ball in the middle
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of their stance, keep your arms straight at impact and get some turn in your shoulders,” Harrell said. “These are 10-year-olds. Their bodies kind of figure it out as they go. Some kids are so small, even the junior clubs are too heavy for them. “In the older group because of the longer attention span, we can do a little more technical work with them. With the young kids, it’s all about getting the club in
their hands properly, making sure they’re set up properly.” One of the six coaches, Nancy Hanson, is a bit more detailed in her instruction, but she still keeps it simple. “We like to get the basics which is grip, aim, stance and posture,” Hanson said. “Most of what people do wrong is before they ever hit the ball. It’s in their
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Valley Sports Preview
Thursday, June 20, 2019
Nancy Hanson works with 7- to 10-year olds on the basics of chipping and pitching on the driving range. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)
GOLF: Shoreland Country Club Junior Golf Camp attracts a crowd
The younger players have little pate at no cost. The family donates St. Peter High School golfer/volunteer instructor Logan Moe lines up Hailey Detlefsen, 7, to hit a From Page 11C or no experience when they join. scholarship a year that cover the pitch shot. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald) setup. So if we can get those basics
The 7 to 10 age group has attracted 31 players to the Shoreland Junior Golf Camp. Here they’re hitting pitch shots on the driving range. (Pat Beck/St. Peter Herald)
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at a young age, that starts them off on the right foot. “If they learn one or two things about the basics, they’re set to love the game. It’s the greatest game in the world, and nobody’s figured it out yet. We’re not robots.” By 7 years old, first grade, Hanson said, “They have a focus. They have a chance to pay attention longer. You start anybody young in any sport now, and they learn the basics. We aren’t tricky about the different grips. We just say thumbs down the middle. We use different cliches like grandfather clock tick tock to help them learn the putting stroke.” Hanson describes the swing to the students in two steps: open the door (backswing) close the door (follow through).
“Some kids know what they’re doing,” Harrell said. “We’ve got a couple of really nice swings in the group, but that’s what the camp’s all about. “For $45 for the week, an hour and half a day of instruction, is good deal to expose them to the sport.” Hanson also assists two weeks at North Links Golf Course in North Mankato and a week at Terrace View Golf Course in Mankato. The five helpers include high school players, parents and club employees. “Their job is to make sure no one gets hit by a golf club or ball, Harrell said. The Dale and Michelle Kaisersatt family started a scholarship to give kids an opportunity to partici-
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fee and use of clubs. Dale is a former member and accomplished golfer who died a few years ago of cancer. “That’s been a really nice addition,” Harrell said. “I believe she set it up for 10 years.” Most players have their own bags. The club has five bags. Some players have full-sized clubs. The shorter clubs work better for shorter kids. “Jason has really got this established,” Hanson said. “It’s really grown. They had it before he came but not in the same format. It breaks two age groups. We get the basics and go from there.” Reach Sports Editor Pat Beck at 931-8566 or follow him on Twitter.com @SPHSportsPat.
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Thursday, June 20, 2019
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PAGE 13
Town ball: It’s still alive and well in Minnesota By DANA MELIUS
Correspondent
Town team baseball memories remain abundant among the Melius clan, despite having folded up the Winthrop Eagles some seven years ago. Life, unfortunately, moves on. But baseball never dies. It’s a great sport, with rich ties to small-town Minnesota. Pockets of great town ball fun and talent remain, particularly in the St. Cloud area and in the western core of the Twin Cities. Jordan’s Mini-Met remains a popular, historic park for many of us. But go west to Fairfax and unheralded Memorial Park or follow the passion which stoked when Tink Larson Field in Waseca saw its historic grandstand go up in flames, and you’ll find great town ballparks, fine communities, dedicated souls to the game. And no state does it better. Some new teams even come forward, like last year’s Janesville Jays and Eagle Lake Expos. I don’t have any great answers for why some communities keep their town teams going and thriving. I do sense why some toss in the towel though. In Winthrop, the reasons were diverse, ranging from a baseball field without a watering system to competition for ball players in neighboring Brownton, Gaylord, Gibbon and Fairfax to — and trust me on this one — young players needing to move closer to the Twin Cities for better job opportunities. Yup, student loan debt plays a role, even in town ball. But that’s a story for another day. Last fall I attended the Minnesota Amateur Baseball Hall of Fame in St. Cloud. It was my first return to the banquet and induction ceremony since 2004, when my father, Louis “Pud” Melius was among the honorees. Dad considered it the highlight of his life. I didn’t take offense, since he and Mom had a household of kids. Even in town ball circles, things can sometimes get a little political, and the campaign of some prospective HOF members can attempt to muster up as many letters of support as possible to
James Van Buskirk lays down a sacrifice bunt in in a 2017 game at Jordan’s Mini Met which became the Tigers’ home during the Region 6C playoffs due to no lights at Henderson. The Tigers qualified that year for their first state tourney trip since starting back up town ball. Henderson previously qualified in 1932. (County News file photo)
season in the mid-’50s, Pud and Rueben put together a budget of $12,000 and spent that and more. That was a hunk of change back then. One of Rueben’s favorite stories was taking the t r ai n to a small town in Wisconsin, in need of a weekend pitcher, Dave Hartmann bringing the prospect back to Winthrop. Trouble was, the guy was no good, and Pud and Rueben paid for his train ride back home.Yup, baseball memories. Some are leaving us. But many remain. The Hall of Fame class of 2018 had plenty of those stories. And it was a very familiar group. I had personally played against four of the five inductees: Dave Hartmann, Arlington; Randy
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Blue Cross offers Cost, PPO and PDP plans with Medicare contracts. Enrollment in these plans depends on contract renewal. Plans are available to residents of the service area. You can also call Blue Cross for plan information or to enroll: 1-877-662-2583, TTY users call 711, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Central Time daily. H2461_051418_JJ03 CMS Accepted 05/18/2018 H5959_051418_JJ04 CMS Accepted 05/18/2018 S5743_051418_FF02_MN CMS Accepted 05/18/2018 Authorized independent agent/agency for Blue Cross ® and Blue Shield ® of Minnesota and Blue Plus®, nonprofit independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
Tink Larson cut the ribbon to officially open the new Tink Larson Community Field on Aug. 18, 2918. Pictured, from left, are: Sen. John Jasinski, Duane Rathmann, Mayor Roy Srp, Dan Stenzel, Tink Larson (seated), Paul Larson, Dave St. Peter, Gene Glynn and Craig Simmons. (County News file photo)
throw some weight into the decision-making process. I wasn’t going to go that route for Puddy. He was 88 and time was running out. So, after Winthrop made a surprising state tourney run in 2003, the community’s only second berth and first since 1956, I nominated him.
My letter said there would be no campaign; he deserved to be in, those who knew amateur baseball in the region knew it, and that was the message. So, 2004 was Puddy’s turn. Dad was a good player, better manager, and prolific fundraiser in his day. Winthrop’s heydays
were during the old Western Minny days, when semi-pro players brought their talents into rural Minnesota. Pud and his good friend, Rueben Witt, would recruit ball players in several states, once coaxing the majority of an Oklahoma State NCAA team to put on Winthrop uniforms.One
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Valley Sports Preview
Thursday, June 20, 2019
BASEBALL: Town team tradition continues in Minnesota From Page 13C
Heidmann, Gaylord/St. Mathias; Gary Hess, Fairfax; and Bruce Rosenau, Hutchinson. The fifth inductee was Myron Bennett of Hadley. I had hoped to do a story on Hartmann, now of Le Sueur, for one of the publications I used to manage, the News-Herald. I interviewed Dave briefly at last summer’s Minnesota Amateur Baseball Association tournament in New Prague, with intentions of doing a sports feature. Never happened, for a myriad of reasons. Maybe it was because I always considered Dave an Arlington A’s legend, and we didn’t cover that Sibley County community. (Or maybe I simply had too much on my plate. I’ll go with that one.) And he was. The A’s claimed five state tourney titles and have qualified for 24 state tournaments. Dave played a role in many of those, either as a player, coach or board member.
Yet, my favorite personal memory of Dave — and he might be calling me on this one — was when in 1977, as a 20-year-old player-manager of the old Gibbon-Winthrop Orioles, we ousted Arlington in the first round of the former Ara Wilson League playoffs. And that was a monster A’s lineup. Arlington had been to the state in ‘76, went again in ‘78, and finally won a state title in ‘79. That lineup, if I recall, had Duke O’Brien and Mike and Dave Hartmann in the 3-4-5 holes. But at the Winthrop park, with a short 284-foot left-field fence, we twice walked Mike (a righty) to pitch to Dave (a lefty), due to a 325-foot right-field fence. Dave, quite the competitor, wasn’t happy, as our right-hander Steve Shult (who went on to Mankato State) was going to pitch to Hartmann’s lefthanded bat. And, twice, it worked for us.One remembers those battles, those days on the field, mixing it up with teammates in the dugout.
Waseca’s Tink Larson Community Field grandstand was finally completed in 2018, three years after a fire destroyed its historic grandstand. (Waseca County News file photo)
Hartmann recalled them too at that 2018 HOF banquet. “I remember growing up and how I liked the game of baseball,” he told the crowd. “We played morning, noon and night.”Hartmann grew up watching and then playing alongside the
likes of Larry Klunder and Jim Stoll, both earlier Hall of Fame members. “They made us all better players,” Hartmann said, then echoing what so many of us share. “Baseball for me is all about relationships. And now I’ve had a chance
to be on the (MBA) board. And I love it.” Others from the region who’ve also entered the Minnesota Amateur Baseball Hall of Fame include: Earl “Brody” Broadbent, Elysian, 1975; Joe Driscoll, Le Sueur, 2013; Marvin Fiemeyer,
Courtland, 1973; Richard Grundhoffer, Montgomery, 1991; Raymond Hoffmann, St. Peter, 1998; Tom Jameson, Le Center, 1981; and Tink Larson, Waseca, 1989. Reach Dana Melius at 507276-4077.
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Valley Sports Preview
GET BACK IN THE GAME.
PAGE 15
Good Luck, Athletes!
Nicollet County Bank is a proud supporter of St. Peter community programs!
Are you sidelined by an injury? Our orthopedic and sports medicine experts can help get you back to the activities you love — whether you’re a competitive athlete or a weekend warrior. We apply exceptional knowledge and skills to provide the most effective treatment for you. Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato. Call 507-594-7474 to schedule an appointment. mayoclinichealthsystem.org.
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Thursday, June 20, 2019
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