Nicollet County Ledger March 3, 2024

March 3, 2024 | South Central News & Media

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AASV Names 2024 Howard Dunne Memorial Award Recipient

By Robert Lawson Publisher info@nicolletcountyledger.com

February 27, 2024 — Dr. Paul Yeske received the American Association of Swine Veterinarians’ 2024 Howard Dunne Memorial Award on February 6th during the association’s 55th Annual Meeting in Nashville, Tennessee. The award

recognizes an AASV member who has made important contributions and provided outstanding service to the association and the swine industry.

Yeske is a 1985 graduate of Iowa State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. He went on to earn an MS at the University of Minnesota (1998) and completed the Executive Veterinary Program (EVP) in Swine Health Management

at the University of Illinois (2009).

He is a senior member of the veterinary team at the Swine Vet Center (SVC) in St. Peter, Minnesota.

With more than 30 years of swine veterinary experience, Dr. Yeske has been recognized by his peers for his important contributions to swine medicine in disease management and elimination as the AASV Swine Practitioner of the Year

Continued on page 5

Adam Finseth, pictured above, was shot and killed by a gunman barricaded in his home with ammunition and firearms. He was killed as he was trying to help two police officers at the crime scene in Burnsville. Finseth attended South Central College in North Mankato for his Emergency Responder training. Photo: City of Burnsville.

Statement from Tara Finseth

Adam Finseth, Recently Killed in a Tragic Shooting Scene in the Twin Cities, Was Trained at South Central College The City of Burnsville is prohad so intimately planned. His viding this statement on behalf parents are without their son and Tara Finseth, wife of Firefighter/ his sister is without her big brother Paramedic Adam Finseth and best friend. So many friends and family are left with a void in their To say that our family is dev- hearts. Adam was one of the most astated at the loss of our Adam is selfless and an understatement. We are broken. humble individuals you would Our children ever meet. His dedication to his will grow up without their family, friends, coworkers, neigh“papa.” My soul mate is no longer bors, community, here to wrap me in his arms and and country was unwavering. live out the life we His warm smile, contagious laugh

and genuine personality will be deeply missed by so many. Although our forever hero is no longer with us, his soul will live on through me, his children, family, friends, and community. We know he is by our side everyday until we meet again in heaven. On behalf of our family, thank you for the overwhelming and heartwarming support during this very difficult time.

Saint Peter City Council Offers to Buy Scholarship America Property in Closed Session Last Month

Saint Peter Community Center, where city council meetings are held in Saint Peter.

MAPS District Learning Center Update Saint Peter Community Center, where city council meetings are held in Saint Peter.

By Robert Lawson

District Details Construction Plan for New Facility for Publisher info@nicolletcountyledger.com Student Learning Opportunities and Healthy Activities MAPS School District

3 of its construction project, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of its facilities to better serve the eduNORTH MANKATO – The cational needs of the community.

Mankato Area Public Schools’ Scheduled to begin next week, Center for Learning will start Phase Phase 3 represents the culmina-

tion of planning and dedication to The City of Saint Peter previenhancing the infrastructure of the Center for Learning. This phase is ously took a tour of the property poised to bring a host of transforma- owned by Scholarship America at 1 tive additions, including an addition- Scholarship Way in St. Peter. The city Continued on page 5 was looking for more office space to

meet its growing size as the city has expanded services and population over the years. They were looking at the property for more office space. The Saint Peter City Council recently held a closed session at their February 26 regular council meeting at the Governor’s Room at the Saint Peter Community Center. The closed session was to negotiate the

proposal by the city to purchase the property at 1 Scholarship Way. The city could be on its way to a new and larger location soon. Check upcoming issues of the Ledger for more updates. The building was previously going to be sold to another local business in town with help from the city’s Economic Development

Continued on page 5

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Sunday, March 3, 2024

Spring Devotion Column

By Dave Linn

As spring delights us with new life in our yards and promising work in the fields, the Bible lifts our eyes to even more promises.

When Jesus came to the bedside of Jairus’ daughter, the father and mother didn’t see spring. They saw the terrible dryness of death… and she was only 12 years old. They didn’t have funeral homes in those days, but professional mourners came to prepare the body and lead in the weeping. (Matthew 9:18-26 NIV) So, when Jesus said, “The girl is not dead, but asleep,” they couldn’t help themselves. They had washed the dead girl’s body. They had dressed her.

She was cold and limp. They knew she was dead. And so they laughed at Jesus.

But death is only a sleep for the believer. “Christ Jesus … has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.” (2 Timothy 1:10 NIV) Just as our earth is swallowing up seeds which will soon sprout, Paul wrote, ““Death has been swallowed up in victory.” (1 Corinthians 15:54 NIV) Isaiah prophesied that 8 centuries before it happened.

“He will swallow up death forever.

The Sovereign Lord will wipe away the tears from all faces;

he will remove his people’s disgrace from all the earth.” (Isaiah 25:8 NIV) No mere man can do that. We have fallen into death. But the Lord of Hosts took on flesh and blood. He became our Heavenly Brother and took our place. He died to take away death’s power over us. As Isaiah prophesied, it all began on the mountain of His death and resurrection.

On this mountain the Lord Almighty will prepare a feast of rich food for all peoples, a banquet of aged wine— the best of meats and the finest of wines.

On this mountain he will destroy

the shroud that enfolds all peoples, the sheet that covers all nations; he will swallow up death forever.

The Sovereign Lord will wipe away the tears from all faces; he will remove his people’s disgrace from all the earth. (Isaiah 25: 6-8 NIV) Since He conquered death for believers, He removed the consequences of death too. He removes tears of despair and bitterness. He removes our worry and anxiety over suffering and sadness. The spring of eternity begins to sprout in our hearts.

1898 — The Black Cat US Magazine October 1898

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Focus on Ag

Current Farm Bill Extended Through 2024

By Kent Thiesse

Farm management analyst kent.thiesse@minnstarbank.com

In mid-November the U.S. House and Senate passed a continuing resolution that provided additional federal funding to avoid a government shutdown at the federal level. The continuing resolution that was passed and signed into law also extends the current Farm Bill for one year through September 30, 2024. This means that the current farm program and crop insurance provisions will remain in place through the 2024 crop year. It also will keep other important federal programs such as the Dairy Margon Coverage (DMC) program, Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), and other popular USDA programs in place for at least another year.

The extension will also limit any

immediate changes to the Nutrition Title of the Farm Bill, which funds food assistance programs through SNAP, WIC, and the school lunch program.

The current Farm Bill, known as the “Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018”, expired on September 30, 2023. Even though both houses of Congress held multiple hearings and listening sessions during the past year, no formal legislation for a new Farm Bill has been proposed in either house of Congress. Once North Mankato History Trivia event last month in North Mankato. a formalized Farm Bill is proposed and discussed, it will need to be passed by both houses of Congress and signed by President Biden before it can be enacted. It was not realistic to complete this process on a timely basis in order to avoid gaps in the continuation of some important USDA programs, which is why a one-year extension was passed by

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Sunday, March 3, 2024

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Nicollet County Area Sports, Scores and Stats This Week

New Ulm Boys Varsity Basketball Team Beat Worthington Trojans The New Ulm Eagles Boys February 26. basketball varsity team defeatThe Trojans, for their part, ed Worthington’s Trojans by scored 36 points in the first half a score of 93-87 on Monday, and 51 points in the second.

Their top scorers scored 22 and 19 points for their side. New Ulm was steady in their ascent with 49 points in the first and

44 in the second half. Colton Benson was on fire with 43 points in the game that night to advance New Ulm.

New Ulm Boys Hockey Team Going to Xcel Center for State

The New Ulm Eagles celebrated time in five years.

3A title game this past Wednesday hockey state tournament since the their epic win over the Tigers. Now They took on and won 4-2 against evening.

2018-2019 season. At that time the team will head to state for first the Marshall Tigers in the Section The Eagles have not been to the they finished 0-2.

Nicollet Raiders Boys Basketball Team Finishes Last Two Games The Nicollet Raiders boys varsiety basketball team finished the last two games

of the season.

On February 23, they faced WEMHS and lost 73-

49.

On March 1, they faced M a r t i n C o u n t y We s t a n d

lost by just five points. The final score by the last half was 67-62.

O n T h u r s d a y, F e b 2 2 , 2 0 2 4 , t h e N i c o l l e t Va r s i t y Girls Basketball team lost

their game against Cedar Mountain High School by a score of 46-80.

O n F r i d a y, F e b 1 6 , 2 0 2 4 , t h e N i c o l l e t Va r s i t y G i r l s Basketball team lost their

game against Mountain Lake/Comfrey High School by a score of 58-69.

Saint Mary’s announces fall 2023 dean’s list WINONA, Minn. (February 26, 2024) - Congratulations to the following undergraduate students, who were named to the 2023 fall semester Dean’s List at Saint Mary’s University. The list includes 465 undergraduate students who earned a grade point average of 3.60 or better on a 4.0 scale.

About Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota Grounded in Lasallian Catholic values, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota awakens, nurtures, and empowers learners to ethical lives of service and leadership.

Whether in person or online, adult or undergraduate, students are treated with respect, taught with humanity, and supported by faculty and staff committed to their

success in programs designed to prepare graduates for today’s and tomorrow’s careers. Founded in 1912 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota enrolls nearly 4,100 students at its undergraduate and graduate programs on campuses in Minneapolis, Rochester, Winona, and online. Saint Mary’s offers a highly personal, real-world-ready

educational experience that fully prepares students to work, lead, and serve with character and purpose. Learn more at smumn.edu.

HOMETOWN, STATE; NAME/ Mankato, MN Kirsten Sims North Mankato, MN Abigail Lang St. Peter, MN Ella Boomgaarden

Nicollet Raiders Girls Basketball Team Final Scores for the Season

Local College Student Achievements Announced Here

Nicollet Girls varsity basketball team faced Cedar Mountain Thursday.

Saint Peter Saints Girls Varsity Basketball Team Wins Against Eagles The Saint Peter Saints Girls Saint Peter on Saturday and won Varsiety basketball team played the game. the New Ulm Eagles girls at The final score was 78-70. The Gustavus Adolphus College in Eagles played well but couldn’t

keep up with the rapid fire scor- Center at GAC. ing and hard defense of the Saints The Saints lost their previous in Saturday’s close matchup game game to Byron 73-72 in a very at the college courts of the Lund close game on February 22.

Saint Peter Girls Varsity Basketball Team played at Gustavus Saturday.

Saint Peter Saints Girls Basketball

Saint Peter Girls Varsity Basketball Team faced the New Ulm Eagles.

Saint Peter Girls Varsity Basketball Team faced the New Ulm Eagles.

They lost their previous game to Byron but came back to win against the New Ulm Eagles on Saturday.

Saint Peter Girls Varsity Basketball Team played at Gustavus Saturday.

Tree removal for the Hwy 14/Highland Ave. round- Law Enforcement Beat about in New Ulm starts Law, Crime, Courts, Fire and Emergency Services News Ask a Trooper: 911 Emergency Location Tracking Tools March 6 Motorists are advised to use caution on Hwy 14/Highland Ave. in New Ulm starting Wednesday, March 6, weather permitting, as workers begin removing trees and brush in preparation for construction of a roundabout at this intersection.

The tree removal will have little impact to traffic. However, motorists are advised to watch for workers and equipment along the shoulder. The work needs to be done early in the year to prevent protected bats from making their homes in the trees. The tree clearing work is expected to be complete by March 7, weather permitting.

The tree removal is preliminary

work for construction of a singlelane roundabout at Hwy 14/Highland Ave. The project also includes new sidewalk, trail, and lighting.

Construction on the project is expected to begin in early May and continue until early July, weather permitting.

M. R. Paving & Excavating, Inc. was awarded the project with a bid of $2,265,772.52.

Stay connected Visit the project website for more information and detour maps.

For real-time traffic and travel information in Minnesota, visit 511mn.org or get the free smartphone app at Google Play or the App Store.

By Sgt. Troy Christianson of the Minnesota State Patrol

Question: I thought I heard about 911 being able to find accurate locations even when people don’t know exactly where they are. Can you talk about that?

Answer: Yes, we shared some information on this very subject on our Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s blog just recently. I will share the article.

“As a former dispatcher, Jessica Stanton knows seconds co​​​unt in an emergency. That’s why she was grateful earlier this year for RapidDeploy Radius technology, a new high-tech mapping program that helps public safety telecommunicators locate those who need help with pinpoint accuracy so first responders can find them quickly.

Our Emergency Communication Networks (ECN) division offers the mapping program to all Minnesota public safety answering points (PSAPs) for free.

Stanton was working as a public safety telecommunicator for Dakota 911 when a woman called trying to get urgent medical attention for her brother. The problem? She didn’t know where he was — and neither did he.

Stanton used the RapidDeploy technology to send the man a text message saying, “This is 911, click this link to share your location.” The man clicked the link, giving Stanton his exact location within two or three seconds. She sent a screenshot of the map to first responders, who quickly zeroed in on his location and started providing medical attention.

“Within a couple seconds of speaking to this individual, they actually became unable to communicate due to his medical condition,” Stanton said. “It was just the right opportunity, the right time, everything worked out perfectly and hopefully that’s how it works out in the future as well.”

Rescue efforts involving ground searches can be high stakes; a delay

of just a few minutes can cost someone their life. Locating the patient, which once could have taken responders hours, was instantaneous with the click of the link.

“The importance of time cannot be overstated when it comes to saving lives. Thanks to the existence of cutting-edge technology, we can now pinpoint a caller’s exact location with remarkable precision, often even before they are aware of it,” said ECN Director Dana Wahlberg.

“RapidDeploy’s Solution is just part of how ECN is constantly adapting technology to meet Minnesota’s needs, and we want the public to know about this as well.”

The texting technology also allows telecommunicators at PSAPs to quickly overcome language barriers and connect with those in need.

RapidDeploy uses a built-in translation feature supporting multiple languages to communicate with callers in their preferred language.

“We’ve been able to utilize the outbound text feature and language translation to try to make contact

and try to find out if there’s an emergency situation happening,” said Heidi Hieserich, Dakota 911’s executive director. “It saves us a tremendous amount of time not having to go through the process of getting translation services on the line with us.”

According to the latest census data, 12 percent of Minnesotan families speak languages other than English in their homes. That means nearly 700,000 people could need and would benefit from having access to rapid translation services during an emergency.”

For more information on the “Emergency Communication Networks” please visit https://dps. mn.gov/divisions/ecn/Pages/default.aspx If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trp. Troy Christianson – Minnesota State Patrol at 2900 48th Street NW, Rochester MN 55901-5848. or reach him at, Troy.Christianson@ state.mn.us.

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Focus on Ag Continued AASV Names 2024 Howard Dunne Memorial From Page 2 Congress. The continuing resolution that was passed will also maintain funding for most federal agencies, including those that are part of USDA, until either mid-January or early February of 2024.

When most people hear of a “Farm Bill”, they think of the commodity programs and payments that affect crop producers. Some people may be aware that crop insurance and conservation programs are included under the Farm Bill, and some are knowledgeable that Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and food stamps are part of the Farm Bill legislation.

However, very few people outside of government officials and policy experts are aware that the Farm Bill also covers funding for rural fire trucks and ambulances, export promotion, international food aid, forestry programs, ag research and extension education at land-grant universities, and school lunch programs. The current Farm Bill passed in 2018 was over 1,000 pages in length, and contains 12 separate Titles, which cover a multitude of programs that are administered by USDA. Farm Program for 2024 The recent extension of the 2018 Farm Bill means that the “price loss coverage” (PLC) and “ag risk coverage” (ARC) farm program options for eligible crops will remain in place for the 2024 crop year and will be similar to PLC and ARC programs for the 2019 to 2023 crop years. For 2024, producers will be able to choose between the price-only PLC and revenue-based ARC program choices for the 2024 crop production year. The ARC program choice includes both the county-yield based “ARC-CO” program, which is most popular, and the “ARC-IC” program, which is based on farm-level yields.

If no choice is made, the 2023 farm program choice will remain in place for 2024. The deadline to finalize the farm program choice and to enroll for 2024 farm program benefits will likely be March 15, 2024, at local Farm Service Agency (FSA) offices. As of this writing, USDA has not yet made any official announcements regarding 2024 farm program sign-up.

Crop base acres for 2024 will likely remain at the same levels as 2023 for all crops on most farms, unless there are adjustments in base acres for crop acres that were added via land purchases or rental agreements or acres that are no longer eligible for farm program payments. The 2023 farm program yields on individual farm units, which were last updated in 2020, will be continued to calculate potential PLC payments. The ARCCO “benchmark yields” for 2024 will be based on the “Olympic-average” Risk Management Agency (RMA) county average yields for the 2018 to 2022 crop years. The national “market year average” (MYA) price for each program crop for the years 2018-2022 will be averaged to calculate the 2024 “benchmark price” for the ARC-CO and ARC-IC programs.

The calculation formulas, etc. for the 2024 PLC, ARC-CO and ARC-IC programs will likely remain the same as in previous years.PLC payments for 2024 will be made if the final MYA price for 2024 falls below the reference price for a given crop. ARCCO payments for 2024 will be made if the final county revenue for the year (county yield x final 2024 MYA price) falls below the 2024 benchmark revenue (county benchmark yield x benchmark price) for a given crop. The calculations for the ARC-IC program are the same as for the ARC-CO program, except ARC-IC uses farm-level yield data and considers all crops on a farm unit together for calculation of potential payments in a given year.

PLC and ARC-CO payments are paid on 85 percent of crop base acres, while ARC-IC payments are paid on only 65 percent of base acres.

The 2014 Farm Bill established “statutory reference prices” for all

crops that were used to calculate PLC payments. The 2018 Farm Bill set the fixed statutory prices as minimum reference prices and added the possibility for “effective reference prices” (ERP).

The ERP allows the reference price to increase by as much as 15 percent above the fixed reference price (fixed price x 115%). The final ERP for a given year is the higher of the fixed statutory price or the 5-year “Olympic average” price for a commodity times 85 percent (.85). The “Olympic average” price is calculated by taking the market year average (MYA) price for the five previous years (not including the current marketing year), dropping the high and the low price, and then averaging the other prices for the other three years. For the 2024 crop year, the “Olympic average” price is based on the MYA prices for the years 2018 to 2022, which is then multiplied by 85% (.85) to determine the final ERP price.

The final effective reference prices (ERP) for the 2019 to 2023 crop years were at the minimum statutory levels of $3.70 per bushel for corn, $8.40 per bushel for soybeans, and $5.50 per bushel for wheat, meaning that calculation for higher ERP levels was not triggered for any of those three crops.

MYA prices have been high enough in recent years to likely result in higher 2024 PLC reference prices for corn and soybeans; however, the wheat reference price will likely remain at the minimum level. The higher reference prices for corn and soybeans potentially increases the likelihood of PLC payments for the 2024 crip year, especially for corn if average market prices continue to decline during the 2024-25 marketing year. (Please refer to the attached Table.) Following are the estimated 2024 PLC reference prices: Corn = $4.02 per bushel (maximum is $4.26/bu. and minimum is $3.70/bu.)

Soybeans = $9.26 per bushel (maximum is $9.66/bu. and minimum is $8.40/bu.)

Wheat $5.50 per bushel (maximum is $6.33/bu. and minimum is $5.50/ bu.)

The 2024 benchmark (BM) prices that are used for the ARC-CO and ARC-IC programs are also based on the five-year “Olympic average” MYA prices for 2018 to 2022; however, the ARC benchmark prices are not factored downward by 85 percent (x .85).

The minimum BM price is the statutory reference price for a given crop.

Following are the estimated ARC-CO and ARC-IC benchmark prices for the 2024 crop year: Corn = $4.75 per bushel $3.98/bu.in 2023) Soybeans = $10.89 per bushel ($9.57/bu.in 2023) Wheat $6.21 per bushel ($5.50/bu. in 2023) BOTTOM – LINE Another provision in the 2018 Farm Bill allows farm operators to make year-to-year decisions between PLC, ARC-CO and ARC-IC for each eligible crop on an FSA farm unit.

Assuming that the PLC and ARC-CO farm program provisions and calculations in 2024 stay relatively similar to recent years, farm operators will want to do a bit more analysis before finalizing year-to-year farm program decisions for various crops. The potential for higher PLC reference prices and increasing benchmark prices will make that decision a bit more challenging for 2024 than in recent years.

USDA has not yet announced the 2024 farm program details and sign-up dates at local FSA offices.

Note — For additional information contact Kent Thiesse, Farm Management Analyst and Sr. Vice President, MinnStar Bank, Lake Crystal, MN. (Phone — (507) 381-7960) E-mail — kent.thiesse@minnstarbank.com) Web Site — http://www. minnstarbank.com/

Award Recipient

Award Continued From Page One

(1998), the recipient of the Allen D. Leman Science in Practice Award (2010), and the Iowa State University Swine Disease Conference Science in Practice Award (2013).

He has contributed to the greater

knowledge of swine medicine for veterinarians as a speaker at multiple annual meetings of the AASV. In 1996, he delivered the Howard Dunne Memorial Lecture. He served on the AASV swine health

committee, the PCV2 task force, and the annual meeting program planning committee. He continues to serve the association as a member of the PRRS committee and PED elimination task force.

City Council Continued From Page One

Upon acceptance of the award, Dr. Yeske said, “I am humbled to be considered with the previous recipients.” He offers his gratitude to his wife, Lori, and son, Adam, for their support.

Authority (EDA) but GO! Therapy had a change of plans for their childcare and mental health services business, so the building became available to suit the needs of the city if a deal goes through.

In other council news: The Saint Peter City Council approved a small parcel to be dedicated as a city right-of-way along Old Minnesota Avenue and two revolving loan requests for a total of $110,000.

The revolving loan was approved

for 227 Mulberry LLC. That is the business entity that owns Tremendous Brewing Company.

The council also approved authorization to re-establish the city’s accessibility improvement grant program for 2024 with a budget of 45,000.

The city adopted the updated Wastewater Treatment Facility Plan.

They also approved two new business licenses in town (see previous editions of the Ledger).

They approved execution of the library services contract with Nicollet County.

The next regular Saint Peter City Council meeting will take place Monday, March 11 at 7 p.m. at the community center.

Tuesday, March 5 is the presidential nominating primary.

Monday, March 11, the Housing and Redevelopment Authority meeting will take place at 3:30 p.m. The Library Board will meet on March 12 at 5:30 p.m. and the Parks and

Recreation Advisory Board will meet on March 19 at 4 p.m. The Tourism and Visitors Bureau meets on March 22 at 8 a.m. Another city council meeting will take place on March 25 at 7 p.m. and the Heritage Preservation Commission will meet at 5:30 p.m. on March 26. The Hospital Commission will meet at 12:30 p.m. on March 27 and March 28, the Economic Development Authority (EDA) will convene. The planning and zoning commission will convene March 28.

al classroom pod, a childcare pod, a full-service production kitchen, nutrition services offices, a printshop, two elementary-sized gym floors, and a district warehouse.

“We are incredibly excited to embark on the final phase of construction for the MAPS Center for Learning,” said Katie Gag, Assistant Director of Early Learning of the Center for Learning. “This project underscores our commitment to providing the best possible learning environment for our students, staff, and community. With these new additions, we are poised to elevate

educational experiences and support services for our youngest learners and their families.”

Phase 3 of the construction project is set to complete the physical landscape of the Center for Learning, with tasks including the construction of new pods and facilities, as well as the renovation and enhancement of existing spaces. The addition of both a preschool classroom and childcare pod will provide essential educational and extended care services for families, while the production kitchen and nutrition services offices will enhance the din-

ing experience and administrative efficiency. The printshop will be in a centralized district location, while the renovated gym floors will promote physical activity and wellness among students within the Center for Learning and our community.

Construction is anticipated to last until early to mid-August, with regular updates provided to keep stakeholders informed of progress and milestones achieved.

“We understand the importance of transparency and communication throughout this process,” remarked Scott Hogen, MAPS Facilities

Director. “As such, we will provide regular updates on the progress of the project to ensure that our students, staff, and community members are kept well-informed every step of the way.”

The completion of Phase 3 will not only transform the building that will help centralize the services that support our earliest learners and their caregivers but also underscore its commitment to providing comprehensive support and resources to facilitate student success.

For more information contact staff at 507-387-1868.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar was awarded the 2024 Distinguished Public Service Award from the American Legion for her leadership on a range of issues championed by the organization. She was honored for her work ensuring Department of Veterans Affairs benefits include comprehensive care for veterans who were exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances; supporting the Afghan allies who stood with our troops; and pushing to end the blockade of military promotions in the Senate. The award

was presented to Klobuchar by the American Legion National Commander Daniel J. Seehafer during the organization’s Washington Conference. Download a photo here.

“It’s an honor to receive the Distinguished Public Service Award from an organization as esteemed as the American Legion,” said Klobuchar. “I believe that public service and patriotism are about putting our differences aside to stand with those who have stood up for our nation. From breaking through

unnecessary blockades of military promotions to pushing for more legal certainty for the Afghan allies who supported our troops, I am proud to work in partnership with the American Legion to advance our national security priorities.”

“On behalf of our 1.5 million dues-paying members of The American Legion, I am honored to recognize Senator Amy Klobuchar with our 2024 Distinguished Public Service Award. We are grateful for Sen. Klobuchar’s leadership on key legislative priorities

of The American Legion and the veteran service organization community. Her consistent efforts to bring colleagues on both sides of the aisle together to fight for veterans and for our nation’s security interests are highly appreciated by our organization,” said The American Legion National Commander Daniel J. Seehafer.

The Distinguished Public Service Award is given annually to an elected official who has established an outstanding record in support of principles advanced

by The American Legion.

School District Continued From Page One

Klobuchar Receives the American Legion’s Distinguished Public Service Award

City of North Mankato Updates Late February Thru March North Mankato Police Department Now Hiring The North Mankato Police Department is now hiring! Lateral and entry level positions are available. To apply, email or mail a completed application, cover letter, and resume to City Hall (1001 Belgrade Ave.) or apply online here: www. northmankato.com/employment opportunities.

Contact: 507-625-4141 Hiring for Seasonal Positions The City will begin hiring for the following seasonal positions on March 1st: • Swim Facility Lifeguards, Attendants, & Concessions Staff • Caswell Parks Maintenance & Concessions Staff • Caswell Sports Leagues officials and Youth Sports coaches & staff • Public Works Staff (Street & Parks Department) Learn more by calling 507-6254141 or visit our website at w w w. n o r t h m a n k a t o . c o m / employment-opportunities Presidential Nomination Primary Election Tuesday, March 5th: polls open 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

The Presidential Nomination Primary election will take place on Tuesday, March 5th, are you prepared to vote? Early absentee voting is available now through March 4th at the Nicollet County Government Center in St. Peter. Find your polling location, learn how to vote absentee, or view more election information on our website: www.northmankato.com/elections.

Contact: 507-625-4141 North Mankato Police Reserve Now Hiring Make a difference in your community by serving as a Reserve Police Officer! North Mankato Police Reserve Officers provide support to our full-time officers and community in a variety of ways including, but not limited to, providing security for community events, assisting with traffic control for special events, communicating with a diverse population, and more. No prior experience in law enforcement is required to become a Reserve Officer, uniforms and training are provided. Must be 18 years of age to apply. Questions may be directed to 507- 625-7883. Applications are available at the Police Annex

(1001 Belgrade Avenue) or online at https://www.governmentjobs.com/ careers/northmankato/jobs/4380487.

Receive City of North Mankato Public Alert Notifications Residents can now receive alerts & community updates by text message and email! • To sign up for Emergency Alerts: text 56003 to 888777 • To sign up for Community Events: text NMCOMMUNITY to 888777 • To sign up for Taylor Library events: text NMLIBRARY to 888777 • To sign up for Caswell Sports Alerts: text CASWELL to 888777

• To sign up for Construction and Traffic alerts: text NMCONTRAFFIC to 888777 • To sign up for Swim Facility alerts: text SWIM to 888777 • Sign up at www.northmankato. com/public-alerts-sign-up or call 507-625-4141 Taylor Library Read & Play Mondays & Tuesdays: 9:30 a.m. – North Mankato Taylor Library Children ages 1-5 and their parents/guardians are invited to join us

Submit Legal Notices to info@nicolletcountyledger.com

Mondays and Tuesdays at 9:30am for educational play, games, stories, crafts and more!

Contact: 507-345-5120 LEGO Club Tuesday, February 27th: 4:00 p.m.

– North Mankato Taylor Library Kids ages 6-11 are invited to join us for our monthly Lego Club!

Registration required and opens Monday, January 22nd at 10:00am.

Register by calling the library at 507-345-5120, stopping into the library or online at https://www. northmankato.com/library_calendar.php Adult Craft Night Wednesday, February 28th & Thursday, February 29th: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

North Mankato Police Annex For February's Adult Craft Night we will have a relaxing night of coloring! Choose the February 28th OR February 29th date when you register. There is no cost for this craft. Registration required. Open to ages 18+. Register by calling the library at 507-345-5120, stopping into the library, or online at https:// www.northmankato.com/library_ calendar.php Chess Night

Continued on page 6

Page 6

Nicollet County Ledger

Sunday, March 3, 2024

Saint Peter Local Record Store Hosts Hip Hop Event

View from the DJ setup as local emcee, Robert John Kolbe, also known as his performance moniker, “!ntelligent Des!gn.

He performed Saturday at Aesthetic Records & Texts, a new business in Saint Peter on Minnesota Ave (Hwy. 169).

Several other artists got an opportunity to perform to the local crowd as well.

Joh Iuan Gill is the owner of the shop in Saint Peter, which hosted the Hip Hop Showcase event on Saturday.

North Mankato Updates (Continued from Page 5) Friday, March 1st: 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. – North Mankato Taylor Library All ages and skill levels are welcome to join us for our Chess Night on Friday, March 1st from 4-6pm in the library conference room. No registration required.

Contact: 507-345-5120 Family Fun Night Friday, March 1st: 6:30 p.m. – North Mankato Taylor Library Families are invited to join us at the library for a night of crafts and activities, all inspired by making the world a better place! With special guest Laura K. Murray, author of "The Kindness Booth"!

Contact: 507-345-5120

Eat Your Words: Edible Book Festival Saturday, March 2nd: 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. – North Mankato Taylor Library Voting: 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.

Tasting: 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.

Awards: 2:30 pm

On Saturday, March 2nd, the North Mankato Taylor Library will be hosting their annual Edible Book Festival. Pick a book or author to base your entry on and get creative! Any form of food can be submitted and your entry will be judged in 5 categories for a chance to win prizes! This event is open to all ages, children 10 and

under must be accompanied by an adult. Even if you do not wish to create an entry, you can still come and vote for the People's Choice Award as well as try each creation.

The event is open to the public and free! Participants who want to create an entry for the contest MUST register. They can do so by either stopping by the library to get their entry form and other important information, by registering online, (https://www.northmankato.com/ library_calendar.php), or by calling 507-345-5120. Entrants are encouraged to return their forms back to the library by Thursday, February 29th to ensure participation.

Contact: 507-345-5120

Culture & Rec Programming Summer Programming Registration Opens On March 1st, registration for our Summer 2024 programming will open! Check out all the youth and adult sports we have planned for this summer and view our 2024 Spring/Summer Programming brochure for a full list of offerings at www.northmankato.com/ culture-and-rec. Contact: 507-5083267 Senior Exercise with Sandy Tuesday mornings from 9:1510:00 a.m. – North Mankato Police Annex Join the Culture & Recreation department for this low impact

exercise class for our active aging population. All fitness levels are welcome! Learn more and preregister at https://app.amilia.com/ store/en/city-of-north-mankato/ shop/activities/4128827. Contact: 507-508-3267 Swim Facility Lifeguard Certification Class Monday, March 25th – Wednesday, March 27th – Lake Crystal Area Rec Center The Swim Facility is gearing up for summer! If you are at least 15 years of age and are interested in lifeguarding for the 2024 season, the Swim Facility is offering a Certification Class that will run March 25th - 27th. Registration

closes March 20th and spots are limited! Find out more at www. swimnorthmankato.com/programming.

Contact: 507-508-3267 2024 Swim Facility Programming 2024 Swim Facility Programming and swim lessons information will be live on March 1st! Registration will open for fitness classes, birthday party packages, adult nights and more. Check out the swim lessons schedule and more programming information on the Swim Facility’s website: www. swimnorthmankato.com/programming.

Contact: 507-508-3267

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CIA

COMMUNITY INSURANCE AGENCY

Community Insurance Agency of Lafayette, Inc. Melissa Schultz

Agent License #1011072

761 Main Ave. • P.O. Box 306 Lafayette, MN 56054 Office: 507-228-8201• 1-800-481-8201 Fax: 507-228-8248 • Cell: 507-276-9639 melissa@cialafayette.com • www.cialafayette.com