Nicollet County Ledger March 26, 2023

March 26, 2023 | South Central News & Media

Courtland Baseball Page 8

Focus on Ag Page 2

Classifieds Page 4

Saint Peter School Board to Cut Some Staff Amidst Budget Deficit, Citing 3 Main Issues

By Robert Lawson Publisher info@nicolletcountyledger.com

The Saint Peter School Board met on March 20 in the Governor’s Room at the Saint Peter Community Center to discuss a budget forecast for 2024.

First though, the Student Spotlight featured a sixth- and eighth-grader

and both participated in the Lion King school play production, according to staff. They were recommended by the theater director. Those students were Charlie Hagen and Maya Knutson from Saint Peter Middle School. They described what they learned and the experiences, mostly positive, they had in the theater production.

Hagen played the character of

Rafiki (the monkey).

“Because Rafiki is so crazy, it kind of made me realize that I had this crazy side that I didn’t know I had,” Hagen said.

Maya described what she liked about her participation too.

“I, like, met a bunch more people,” she said. “I used to be kind of

Continued on page 5

NCEI Data Reveals The Record Highest Snowfall Recorded in Nicollet County

By Robert Lawson Publisher info@nicolletcountyledger.com

Data recorded up to summer 2021 revealed Nicollet County hit its record snowfall accumulation 83 years ago on Nov 12, 1940. A total of 15 inches of snow over a 24-hour period dumped down on the residents, cities and farmland of Nicollet County. Stacker poured through data to find the largest amount of snowfall in Nicollet County, Minnesota. They used data from the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) to compile the results.

According to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration Government agency (NOAA), snowfall in several regions of the United States has declined since 1930, when records started being regularly kept. The NOAA data suggests that 80 percent of weather stations recording the data report a drop in the precipitation levels that reach our atmosphere to become what we know as snow.

New data will soon be available to see if that record will be broken. According to NOAA, more precipitation and snow is signaled with climate change phenomena.

Meteorologist Sven Sundgaard was cited in BringMeTheNews, a Minnesota based news network, that this past Winter was one of the “wet-

test” ever recorded.

“Depending on how far back you go in the data, it was either the wettest or second wettest meteorological (December-January-February) winter for the Twin Cities. The winter of 1880-1881 measured a whopping 9.58 inches of precipitation.”

Though the report on BringMeTheNews mostly focused Maya Knutson (left) and Charlie Hagen (middle), in 5th and 8th grades respectively, were introduced to the on the Twin Cities, it is important to Saint Peter School Board for Student Spotlight, recognizing them for their theater participation. note that much of the state this past 2022-2023 season recorded large snowfall volume throughout the state, including Nicollet County.

“An unusually large area saw 48 to 72+ inches of snow from southwest Minnesota through the Twin Cities and up the North Shore.”

New Ulm Schools Approves Superintendent Finalist Candidate Then Makes New Hire

Continued on page 5

New Ulm High School building pictured above.

By Robert Lawson Publisher info@nicolletcountyledger.com

on Monday, March 6, 2023, in the District Boardroom. The meeting agenda was brief.

Members present were Melissa Sunderman, Denny Waloch, Christie A Special Board Meeting of the Dewanz, Steve Gag, Independent School District 88 Amanda Groebner, Matt Ringhofer, and Jonathan Schiro. Staff County Board of Commissioners were presented with this trophy for Continuous Improvement on March Board of Education, New Ulm, Minnesota was held present included Superintendent Jeff 14.

Bertrang. Guests present were Ed Waltman and Harold Remme from South Central Service Cooperative. The meeting was called to order by Chair Steve Gag at 8:22 p.m.

The meeting included approval of the superintendent finalist candi-

By Robert Lawson Publisher info@nicolletcountyledger.com

This includes working with Sibley and McLoud counties. The plan is in the final stages of approval by all parties. The joint powers agreement is a partnership to address the watershed concerns. Renville County decided to opt out of the plan because they only share 3 per-

Continued on page 5

Board of Commissioners Approve Farm Expansion and Joint Powers Agreement

The Nicollet County Board of Commissioners’ agenda for their March 14 meeting included two out of state travel requests and a victim/ witness coordinator grant renewal.

The County was presented an award and trophy for Continuous Improvement. Each year, counties submit proof of work they’ve done on their projects. County administrator staff review the impact and improvements.

Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee met on February 27 to consider a conditional use permit request for Annexstad Dairy Farms, Inc. The farm wants to expand its operations from 297.9 animal units to 496.5 animal units. For more than 300, farms must apply for the conditional use permit from the county.

The state also regulates feedlots, so the committee had to consider a few minor changes. There were no past complaints on the site. The public was notified. The detailed plan was approved by the committee and the permit by the County Commission.

A joint powers agreement and plan adoption resolution was approved

for a comprehensive watershed management plan the county has been working on since 2020. The watershed boundaries do not currently align with the boundaries of the county. Nicollet and other counties have to work together to address watershed concerns. The goal is to increase water quality and services.

Continued on page 3

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Nicollet County Ledger

Ad From the Past

Sunday, March 26, 2023

News from the Archives Saturday and Sunday with their father, W. C. Milliman, in Bernadotte.

They came here to observe Mr. 100 Years Ago – Feb. 14, 1920 Milliman’s birthday anniversary, Miss Anna Ebert is employed which was on Saturday. as domestic at the Reuben Lund 50 Years Ago – Feb. 19, 1970 home.

Those who spent the weekRobert Isenberg, H. E. Hedren and Henry Johnson attended the end at the Ambassador Motel in Oldsmobile dealers’ convention at Minneapolis as guests of Land O the Radisson hotel at Minneapolis Lakes were Mr. and Mrs. Arnold Berdan, Mr. and Mrs. Sheldon last week.

John Satterman will erect his Swenson, Mr. and Mrs. Richard saw mill at the John Lund farm Portner, Mr. and Mrs. Roger Isaacson two miles northeast from Lafayette. and Mr. and Mrs. Leo Marti.

Lois Wellnitz of Princeton spent Those who desire to have lumber sawed may haul the logs over there the weekend here with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Kurt Wellnitz. now at any time.

Those who gathered at the Gerald Buttermaker Sjostrom of Klossner Forst home Sunday to honor Robert transacted business here Monday.

Aug. A. Johnson has bought the Hamann who is home on furlough, former J. P. Sjogren residence on were, Mr. and Mrs. Earl Schroeder Church Street and will reside there and family of New Ulm, Mr. and Mrs. Harold Meyer and boys, Mr. after March 1st.

Alvin Fjell is installing booths and Mrs. Delton Hamann and famin the H. F. Anderson restaurant. ily, Mr. and Mrs. Greg Bieraugel This makes a great improvement and Mrs. Rose Hamann.

Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Maidl to Anderson’s ice cream parlor.

There will be a greater demand for and family went to the airport in ice cream hereafter, by the young Minneapolis Wednesday to get their daughter, Diane and Deanna folks.

Mrs. C. O. Gustafson of St. Schmitz, who returned that day Peter arrived here Thursday and from a five day visit at the Tony will stay at the Anton Malmberg Cranford home at Metairie, La. home for a while. With her came They also attended the Mardi Gras Curtis Malmberg who has been vis- at New Orleans while there.

Narve Nelson and Otis Muller iting with grandma Gustafson since returned Monday evening from a Christmas.

Pete and Albert Peterson of week’s fishing at Leech Lake with Alfsborg have rented the Freeman Mr. and Mrs. Harold Woods of Gibbon.

Anderson farm in New Sweden.

Forester members from this area Decorator Fjell is painting John who attended the C.O.F. Bowling Peterson’s Ford.

The local W.C.T.U. will meet with Tournament at St. Peter Sunday Mrs. T. F. Bergquist next Tuesday were Gerald, Richard and Ronald Seitz, Alphonse Goblirsch, Jerome afternoon, Feb. 17.

E. O. Abrahamson and family Weisensel, Leo Maidl, Marion and Henry Abrahamson visited Bushard and Clarence Maidl.

Mr. and Mrs. Michael Hatch of at the Rudell home at Winthrop Rochester spent the weekend at the Sunday.

Miss Claudia Swenson of Otis Muller home.

Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Eckberg Minneapolis visited here over visited at the Carl Lund home in St. Sunday.

John Johnson of Parshall, N. D., Peter Friday evening. was a visitor with his bro-in-law C. NICOLLET LEADER H. Nelson over Sunday.

LAFAYETTE LEDGER

1929 — Lafayette Ledger

Obituaries

Charles “Charlie” A. Vogel

Charles “Charlie” A. Vogel, age 77, of St. Peter, MN passed away on Saturday, February 25, 2023.

A Celebration of his life will be held at The Red Men Club in St. Peter, on April 2, 2023, from 1 - 4 p.m., with a short Red Men Service at 2 p.m.

He was born in Mankato, MN on April 9, 1945 to Ernest and Lucille Vogel, the fifth of eight children. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Peter. After St. Mary’s closed he became a member of the St. Peter Catholic Church.

Charlie attended St. Peter High School, w h e r e he was a member of FFA. He graduated in 1963.

After graduation Charlie continued to work with his father on the family farm until 1974 when he purchased it from his parents.

He farmed this land until his retirement in 2014.

He married his wife, Kathy on April 24, 1976 at South Blue Earth Church in Bricelyn, MN. Together they raised their three children, Cindy, Bryan, and Ann.

Charlie served on the Oshawa Township Board for over 30 years and was an active member of The Red Men Club in St. Peter for many years.

Charlie will be remembered by his wife, Kathy; children Cindy (Paul) Krueger of Farmington, MN, Bryan Vogel of St. Peter, MN, and Ann (Lance) Severin of Nicollet, MN; three grandchildren that brought out the softy in him, Lily, Nathan, and Sara Krueger; siblings Margaret (Ray) Griep, Don Vogel, Barb (Bill) Heyn, and Marleen Peacock; sist e r- i n - l a w Deb (Richard) Bergsather; m a n y n i e c e s and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and even great-great nieces and nephews; and many friends and neighbors.

He is preceded in death by his infant d a u g h t e r, Sara; parents, Ernest and Lucille Vogel; brother, Robert (Ila) Vogel; sisters, Elvera (Barney) Wendelschafer and Evelyn (Milton) Braun; and brother-in-law, Bill Peacock.

St. Peter Funeral Home assisted with arrangements. www. saintpeterfuneralhome.com

Focus on Ag

Farmland Values Continue to Increase

By Kent Thiesse

Farm management analyst kent.thiesse@minnstarbank.com

Farmland values in the Upper Midwest have continued to move higher early in 2023, surpassing the highest levels ever in many areas. Many locations in the Upper Midwest, except for portions of Western Minnesota and Iowa, South Dakota, Nebraska and Kansas, experienced average to above corn and soybean yields in 2022.

These solid yields, combined with the highest crop prices in several years that existed throughout most of 2022, helped boost final 2022 farm income to some of the highest levels that we have seen in many years. The enhanced farm income levels have resulted in sharply higher land values in many portions of Iowa, Minnesota and other areas of the Upper Midwest. Land values have also been enhanced by very strong buyer interest in purchasing farmland and a limited amount of land being offered for sale in many areas.

Iowa State University does a comprehensive land value survey each December, which is regarded as one of the best resources on trends in Midwest farmland sales. The Iowa State Land Value Survey is based on actual land sales in Iowa over a 12-month period, as well as from reports by agricultural professionals that are knowledgeable regarding land market conditions, including

appraisers, farm managers, and ag lenders. The complete 2022 Iowa State Land Value Survey results can be found at: https://www.extension. iastate.edu/agdm/ (Note – Refer to the Table at the end of this column for a summary of Iowa land values from 2008-2022.)

The average value of Iowa farmland in 2022 was $11,411 per acre, surpassing the 2021 average of $9,751 per acre, which previously was the highest average land price ever recorded since the Iowa State Land Value Survey was initiated in 1941. Since the recent low point of $7,183 per acre in 2016, the Iowa State Land Value Survey has shown an increase of 59%, or $4,228 per acre, in the past six years (20162022). This includes a 51% increase in land values in a span of two years from December of 2020 until December of 2022.

The average land values in 2022 increased in all 99 counties in Iowa, as compared to 2021 average values.

Eight of the nine Iowa crop reporting districts had at least a 13% increase in land values in 2022, with Southeast Iowa being the exception with a 9.8% increase. The greatest increases were at just over 22% in both the northwest and southwest districts. The northwest district reported the highest 2022 average land value in Iowa with an average of $14,878 per acre, with the north central, west central, east central and central districts all averaging over

See FOCUS ON AG, page 3

75 Years Ago – Feb. 16, 1945 W. H. Krohn and family visited at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Gilbert Swartz in St. Paul, Sunday.

Mrs. Justine Jacobson entertained a group of ladies at her home Saturday afternoon in observance of her birthday anniversary.

Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Nelson of Winthrop, Mrs. Theo. Ostrom and Grace, of New Sweden, visited Sunday afternoon at the Arthur Flygare home in Bernadotte.

Mr. and Mrs. Delphin Anderson and children, Duane and Gladys, were entertained at dinner Sunday at the Gerald Wise home in New Sweden. The afternoon was spent at the Orville Quist home near St. Peter.

Miss Elaine Isenberg, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Delphin Isenberg of Cornish, has completed a course in beauty culture, and also passed the state board examinations, thereby receiving the license for such work.

Raymond Quandt, Hugo Albrecht and Arthur Schaeffler, members of the board of Lafayette township, went to St. Peter, Monday, and attended the annual weed conference, which was held in the court room of the court house.

Mrs. Martha Carlson and Mrs. LeRoy Anderson spent last weekend in the twin cities.

Carl Youngblom of St. Paul and his roommate, Tom Kostuch, returned to St. Paul Monday evening, after a few days visit with the former’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Youngblom.

Misses Betty and Bonnie Milliman, students of the Hamline University, Minneapolis, spent

115 Years Ago – Feb. 18, 1905 The personal property taxes are due March 1st, and unless paid by that time a penalty of 10 percent will be added.

The fifth of its series of club dances was given by the Nicollet Dancing Club at Blank’s hall Tuesday evening. The Nicollet orchestra furnished the music.

Do not forget the special school meeting to be held on Saturday evening, February 25th. It is important that all interested in school matters should attend this meeting.

The school rooms at present are so overcrowded that early provision needs to be made for an extra room and teacher for same.

The farmers of Brighton township will build a co-operative creamery near the place of Adam Jutz, on the southwest corner of section 3, and are busy hauling material for the same now. They will commence with the erection soon as the weather permits and will hold a meeting on Saturday, March 4th, for the purpose of organizing.

A Judson correspondent says a party from Nicollet, who has been cutting ice, had the misfortune of journeying to the river bottom, rather a disagreeable experience, though the distance traveled was only twelve feet. He then drove home six miles, in his wet clothes, which were certainly stiff upon him by the time he arrived. Do you know him?

The blizzard we had Tuesday worked havoc with the train service. No trains went either way until the following morning when the snowplow cleared the tracks.

Except for telephonic communica- the Chester Nelson home Saturday tion, this village was cut off by the evening. drifting snow and extreme cold LAFAYETTE NICOLLET weather.

LEDGER

100 Years Ago – Feb. 14, 1920 Mrs. Henry Netzke visited her daughter at New Ulm the first of the week who has been ill.

George and William Lange of Oshawa township have gone to Sioux City, Iowa, to attend an automobile school.

Show your loyalty to the fire company by purchasing tickets for their annual ball to be given in the Nicollet opera house tonight.

The ladies of the Progressive Banner will give an apron sale for the benefit of the auxiliary in the local auxiliary parlors Saturday afternoon, Feb. 21.

Henry Epper and family are getting comfortably settled in their new, large and modern residence on West Fourth Street, having moved in during the week.

Three auctions are booked for this vicinity in the near future. The sale of Louis Wenholz will occur on February 20. August Schroeder will conduct a sale on February 27th, and H. C. Fricke will close out his personal property on March 4th.

Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Johnson of Langdon, N. D., the latter a sister of J. H. Meurer, arrived here last Friday for an extended visit with relatives in Nicollet and vicinity.

Mr. Johnson was an old time resident of Nicollet and in his early days drove a stage between New Ulm and St. Peter.

Dr. E. F. Vogelpohl, Nicollet’s resident dentist, opened up for business in the former Dr. Meilicke’s office this week. His office is modernly equipped in every respect for his dental practice. Dr. Vogelpohl was called out of town today but will be on deck again Monday morning.

25 Years Ago – Feb. 16, 1995 Congratulations to Peter Anthony, son of Willis and Rachel Anthony, for being named to the Dean’s List at Bethany College. Also to Michael Gunderson, son of Darwin and Brenda Gunderson, who also made the Dean’s List at the University of Minnesota, Morris.

Sharon Gaalswyk, Karen Gaalswyk, Cheryl Epper and Joyce, manager of the Budgetel Motel went to dinner at Charley’s and saw the play at the University in Mankato, “Stepping Out.” Kevin and Jeanette Hewitt of Cleveland entertained Sunday afternoon in honor of their daughter, Heather’s 4th birthday. Among those present were Earl and Evie Nelson of Norseland, Bob and Donna Hewitt of St. Peter, Darren and Corrinne Ely, and Angie Seitzer of Cleveland.

Darryl and Barbara Stevensen and Mr. and Mrs. Wade Zieske of rural New Ulm flew to Florida last week to spend time with Barbara’s parents, Herb and Jolene.

Good winter weather has allowed all aspects of construction for the new InLaws Restaurant at Nicollet to proceed. The business, located at the corner of Highways 14 and 111 in Nicollet, is slated to open in early spring.

Herring Trucking of Lafayette put up a new building on the old railroad right-of-way property over the winter. It’s behind the city disposal plant. The 40 X 75 foot building has space for two trucks and will give the Herrings a place to wash their trailers when they return from trips. Final details are being completed and the building should be ready for use in a few weeks.

85 Years Ago – Feb. 16, 1935 About 7:30 Monday morning, the fire department was called to the farm home of Henry Ott where a bad chimney fire was raging.

There was no damage.

Emil Starke has been busy for the past two weeks cutting logs and sawing lumber for a new barn which he will have erected on his farm this spring.

Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Wyngarden and children, who spent several months with Mr. and Mrs. Carl Netzke returned to their home at Tappen, N.D., Wednesday.

Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Kettner, Mrs. L. W. Kettner, Mrs. E. A. Zimmermann and Mrs. Aug. Thom, Jr. visited relatives at Truman on Monday. The latter two remained for a week’s stay.

Aug. Koetting of Courtland township was seriously injured, Wednesday morning, when a shed, which he was tearing down, suddenly collapsed, pinning him underneath. His right hip and his right leg were broken.

A social evening was spent at the home of Miss Norma and Gordon Ott Wednesday evening. The time was spent in playing “bunco” with high honors going to Miss Viola Bode and Harvey Enter and Miss Elvira Enter and Harold Heidemann, low. At midnight a delicious lunch was served.

Peter Jutz came down Monday from Pierz with a truck load of potatoes which he is selling very cheap.

Mrs. Martin Zins and daughters spent Thursday at Nicollet with her sister, Mrs. R. J. Dauffenbach.

Joyce and Allen Erickson, Henry Maritz, Margie Monson and Mrs. Ella Johnson were entertained at

10 Years Ago – Feb. 18, 2010 Nicollet senior Jordan Rudenick surpassed the 1,000 point career mark in a make-up game with St. Clair Saturday afternoon. Rudenick, a four-year player for the Nicollet High School, has been a consistent scorer for the Raiders and is a good all-around player.

Congratulations to Steve and Barb Hulke of Courtland on becoming grandparents for the first time.

Little Hannah Hulke was born to their son and daughter-in-law, Brent and Andria, February 7.

The fourth annual Polar Plunge at Lake Hallett in St. Peter Sunday was even bigger and better than the first three. A total of 313 “human plungers” raised more than $44,000 for Special Olympics. Those numbers are up from 110, 165, and 196 plungers and $21,000, $28,500, and $30,000 in the first three. Nicollet County Sheriff Dave Lange and his group opened the plunge. Nicollet American Legion Post 510 was represented by Del Vulcan and Bruce Connelly. The gals went first and the guys followed when the Courtland Fire Department jumped. Group members were Pam Meyer, Mary Luepke, Jenna Krueger, Danielle Bode, Dave Ubel, Leon Luepke, Jon Rewitzer, Brandon Matter, Adam Marti, and Pat Stadick. Lafayette Ambulance “Team McFreezies” included Kim Schwab, Daryl Trautmiller, Kevin Reinhart, Jay Carlson, Jessi Gieseke, Collin Gieseke, and Marti Uhde.

Andrew and Lisa Quist of Norseland were among nearly 90 Minnesota Farm Bureau members who attended the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation Promotion and Education Conference January 29-30 in Bloomington.

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Sunday, March 26, 2023

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April 6 is Holy Week

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ASK A TROPPER

By Sgt. Troy Christianson Minnesota State Patrol

problem at the crossing. By providing the DOT number on the sign, the dispatchers know exactly where the grade crossing is and can notify trains moving in that direction to either come to a stop or be placed on a speed restriction.

You can avoid a ticket — and a crash — if you simply buckle up, drive at safe speeds, pay attention and always drive sober. Help us drive Minnesota Toward Zero Deaths.

If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota send your questions to Sgt. Troy Christianson – Minnesota State Patrol at 2900 48th Street NW, Rochester MN 559015848. (Or reach him at, Troy.

Christianson@state.mn.us)

k beginning 3/19/2023 Question: What am I supposed to do if I am at a railroad crossing and need to report an emergency?

Answer: Call 911 and provide the needed information. Every highway-rail crossing has an Emergency Notification System (ENS) sign that provides a 24/7/365 telephone number to report problems or emergencies at the railroad location. The blue colored ENS sign is located on the railroad crossing posts or the metal control box near the tracks.

The ENS is for emergencies that would require stopping train traffic due to an obstruction or any other

Page 3

Nicollet County Ledger

South

Father Craig Timmerman

You are beloved! A Blessed Holy Week to you all! This is the week we are renewed in our faith. During Lent the ‘old man’ in some way dies. This week we receive a new life, we become new. Deeper faith, hope and charity. Living more deeply in communion, friendship, relationship with Jesus, the Father, the Holy Spirit, Mary and the saints and angels. Jesus draws close to us in our sins and sufferings. We are not alone, but He is with us. This really does make all the difference! So this week - stay with Jesus! Let Holy Week be just that: holy. Put God before everything

else this week. Other things are secondary, even completely unimportant compared to what we are doing this week. Stay with Jesus, not just on Sunday, but through the week. Of course the most important thing this week is to come to the services on Holy Thursday, Good Friday, waiting on Holy Saturday, and then Easter Vigil/Sunday! We aren’t just ‘going to Church’. We are participating in the events of our own salvation. Our salvation is renewed and deepened. We draw even closer to Christ at the Last Supper, at His death and burial, and in the new life of His Resurrection, which is also our resurrection! Let Jesus draw you

Diocese of New Ulm

to trust the Father as He did, to the end. Let Him transform your heart to love to the end as He did.

Be with Mary, not leaving His side even at the cross. This is our life, and it will renew you. Give God this time.

We also can structure our whole lives this week around Holy Week. Not only by coming to daily Mass or taking an hour or even a few minutes to stop in the chapel/Church to pray. But our faith life really takes shape when we even structure our homes after God. This week, be with Jesus every day. Fast extra this week, to stay with Him. Save anything sweet, or alcohol and pop for Easter. Pray a little more, even than

you did in Lent. Decorate your house according to Holy Week - put holy images, crucifix, etc. in central places of your house to remind you. And then, treat your house like we do in Church. After Holy Thursday, we strip our Church of everything. Do this in your house - take down your pictures, crucifixes, etc. Take off the tablecloth or other decorations.

Let your house speak, ‘Jesus has died’. Keep it that way all day Saturday, as Jesus is in the tomb.

No celebrating Easter until Jesus has risen! And then, when you attend Mass for the Resurrection, it will be a true celebration and return to life again, even in your house! You are beloved!

Centuries-old penitential devotion, Stations of the Cross to be led by Bishop Chad W. Zielinski on Good Friday

NEW ULM – On Good Friday, April 7 (weather permitting), at 3 p.m. at the Way of the Cross shrine in New Ulm, the Most Rev. Chad W. Zielinski, bishop of the Catholic Diocese of New Ulm, will lead a public prayer and meditation on the fourteen Stations of the Cross walking along the shrine’s historic pathway marked by lifelike images portrayed in statuary that retell the story of Christ’s trial, crucifixion, and death. The Way of the Cross will be staffed by the Knights of

Columbus from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Good Friday afternoon.

People of all faiths are invited to attend.

The Way of the Cross, a 119year-old shrine of the Diocese of New Ulm, was inspired by Father Alexander Berghold. The shrine’s fourteen stations, grotto, and Lady of Sorrows Chapel were created and completed in 1904 by Sister Flavia and the Sisters of the Order of the Poor Hand Maids of Jesus Christ. The seasonal shrine

maintenance and fundraising for restoration efforts is a joint project of the local Knights of Columbus Council 1076 and the Diocese of New Ulm Way of the Cross Committee. Throughout the years, restoration has depended on voluntary contributions from individuals and organizations from across Minnesota and beyond. In 2020, the shrine was placed on the National Register of Historic Places by the United States Department of the Interior.

Way of the Cross to be featured on WCCO Television.

On Wednesday, April 5, the Way of the Cross shrine will be featured in a special “Finding Minnesota” segment to be broadcast on WCCO Television (Ch. 4) during the 10 p.m. news. The segment will air again on Thursday morning at 4:30 a.m. and repeat on Easter Sunday around 10:30 p.m. on WCCO. It will also be available to view on WCCO.com (CBS Minnesota).

Light For The Way Pastor’s Column: Who’s Lost?

By Pastor Wayne Wayne Bernau Immanuel Lutheran

Have you ever gotten lost? I recall a couple times in my life when I was out hunting in areas not too familiar to me. Once in the midst of a woods and once in the middle of a swamp, I began to wonder and worry if I would find my way back before the sun set and darkness descended on the land. To be lost in the dark—now that is not a good thought! Fortunately, in both cases, I was able to find my way back to safe, familiar territory. Thank You, Lord!

Luke 15 is the “Lost and Found” chapter of the Bible. Jesus

shared three stories: the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son. A shepherd searches for his lost sheep until he finds it. A woman searches for a lost coin until she finds it.

And a father eagerly awaits the homecoming of his lost, wayward son, and then throws a party to celebrate his son’s safe return.

Actually, if you know the parable of the lost son, you might realize that the father had not one, but two lost sons. The younger, prodigal son left home and was lost for a time as he wasted his inheritance. But he eventually returned home to his father. The older son stayed at home, but was in essence, “lost” to his father. For when the younger son who had been broken

by the hard knocks of life humbly returned home, the older, self-righteous son refused to join the homecoming celebration thrown by his joy-filled father.

Spiritually speaking, have you been, or are you presently lost from God? Have you wandered away from the home of your Father God and wasted your life in godless living? Are you ignorant of, or have you forgotten God’s love, grace, and mercy? Have you strayed from His commands? Do you sense a real distance between you and the Lord? And do you sometimes refuse to celebrate with the family of God over another sinner who repents and returns?

The Lord loves lost peo-

ple. Jesus stated His purpose for coming to earth in Luke 19:10: “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

If you are lost, know that the Father has not stopped loving you and longs eagerly for your return. If you are lost, know that Jesus wants you to be found. He comes looking for you. If you are lost, know that the Holy Spirit will patiently guide you back home to the Father’s family and house.

And then, together with other lost sinners who have been found and saved by God’s amazing grace, the heavenly rejoicing can continue! After all, there’s no place like home! Especially after you have been gone for a season.

Focus on Ag Continued From Page Two

info@nicolletcountyledger.com

$12,000 per acre.

Trends in farmland values in Southern Minnesota have been tracking very closely to the trends shown in the Iowa land value survey for northern crop reporting districts in Iowa.

Similar to many areas of Iowa, land values were much higher in 2022 in most portions of Southern Minnesota due to the much higher commodity prices and average to above average crop yields in many areas.

There have been many land sales across Southern Minnesota that have topped $10,000 per acre in the past 12 months, with some isolated sales nearing $15,000 per acre. Even with the higher land values, there has continued to be a gap between the average land price for high quality, welldrained farmland compared to lower quality land that is poorly drained. The number of potential buyers interested in purchasing farmland has also increased in many areas of Minnesota.

Based on the recent Iowa State Land Value Survey, farmers accounted for approximately 72% of the farmland purchases in Iowa in 2022, which was primarily existing farm operators that were expanding their owned land base. The remaining 28% of farmland was purchased by real estate investors, with about half being retired farmers and other local investors and the other half being non-local investors. The main reasons listed for the strength in farmland values were the continued high commodity prices and strong farm income levels in 2022, the limited supply of land offered for sale and the continued low interest rates in the first half of 2022. The survey indicated that there continues to be strong interest for purchasing land among farmers as we entered 2023.

Data released in late 2022 by the Federal Reserve Districts across the U.S. showed similar trends in average land values in the Upper Midwest at the end of 2022, compared to a year earlier. The highest 12-month percentage increases at the end of 2022 were North Dakota at 30%,

Indiana at 29%, Kansas at 27%, Minnesota at 24% and Iowa at 22%. Nebraska and Illinois were at a 20% increase. South Dakota, which was hard-hit by drought last summer, was still at a 13% increase in land values in 2022.

The U.S. Federal Reserve has increased the prime interest rate by 4.50% in the past 14 months, increasing the prime rate from 3.25% in early 2022 to 7.75% in early March of 2023. The Federal Reserve continues to discuss the likelihood of further increases in the prime interest rate during the balance of 2023. Prior to 2022, the prime rate interest rate had not changed in nearly three years, which provided a stable financing environment for buyers of farmland.

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From early 2022 until March of 2023, that represents an increase in the estimated annual REM principal and interest payment of over $24,000 per year.

On 160 acres of farmland, this

Following is a table showing the average value of Iowa farmland for the past 15 years (2007-2021), as well as the percentage change in land values from year-to-year: IOWA AVERAGE FARM LAND VALUES (2008-2022) YEAR 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022

AVE. VALUE PER ACRE $ 4,468 $ 4,371 $ 5,064 $ 6,708 $ 8,296 $ 8,716 $ 7,943 $ 7,633 $ 7,183 $ 7,326 $ 7,264 $ 7,432 $ 7,559 $ 9,751 $11,411

% CHANGE +14.3 % (2.2 %) +15.9 % +32.5 % +23.7 % +5.1 % (8.9 %) (3.9 %) (5.9 %) +2.0 % (0.8 %) +2.3% +1.7% +29.0% +17.0%

NOTE – This data is from the 2022 Iowa State University Land Value Survey.

Following is an example to show the impact of the rapid rise in long-term interest rates.

Assume that a land buyer purchased an 160-acre parcel of farmland and financed $5,000 per acre ($800,000 total) with a 25-year amortized real estate mortgage (REM). Following are the estimated increase in annual principal and interest (P & I) payments as the long-term interest rates have increased:

would add over $150 per acre to the annual cost of the land.

As part of the 2022 Iowa State Land Value Survey, the respondents were asked their opinion regarding the future direction of farmland values. Fortyeight percent of the respondents expect Iowa farmland values to increase by 5-10% by the end of 2023, as compared to the end of 2022. Twenty-four percent of respondents expect farmland

values to remain fairly steady in the next 12 months, while 28% forecast a decline in land values in Iowa by the end of 2023. When asked about farmland trends over the next five years, 60% of the respondents expect land values to increase by 10-20%, while 24% feel that future land values will decline in the next few years.

Currently, most signs point toward continued strength and even potential further modest increases in land values in the next 12 months. However, there are some lingering “caution flags” that could potentially reverse this optimistic trend and revert to more downward pressure on land values. These potential challenges include: • Return to lower crop prices and lower profitability in crop and livestock farming.

• Further increases in longterm interest rates by the Federal Reserve Bank in the next year.

• Changes in federal policies, such as estate taxes, capital gains taxes or 1031-exchange policies.

• Reduced interest to purchase farmland or a large increase in the amount of land being offered for sale.

• Lack of confidence in the land market by farmers, investors and ag lenders.

As we enter a period of increased crop input costs and tighter margins in crop and livestock production, farm operators need to be more cautious on over-extending their farm business to purchase land. This is especially the case for beginning farmers and those borrowing a significant amount of money that will be impacted by the increasing long-term interest rates. It is best to sit down with a good farm business financial advisor or ag lender to analyze the potential financial impacts on the farm business before finalizing the farm purchase decision.

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Sunday, March 26, 2023

Week of March 19, 2023 Central Nicollet South North County Ledger

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Page 5

Nicollet County Ledger

Raquetball Has Become a Popular Activity at the Saint Peter Community Center

Four adults in the Saint Peter Community Center play raquetball in the gymnasium at noon on Thursday.

Three People Have Been Arrested in Saint Peter by Drug Task Force for Having More Than 350 Oxy Pills Three people will face felony drug charges in Saint Peter for being caught by law enforcement with more than 350 counterfeit oxycodone pills.

The pills were found on Tuesday by dr ug task force agents from the Minnesota River Valley Drug Task Force. Those charged include Calista Lilly Barnes, 20, of Mankato, Ethan Samuel Eugene Newton, 19,

of Mankato and Jasmyn Jeane Black, 18, of St. Peter. The trio were charged Wednesday in Nicollet County District Court, according to reports.

Officers conducted a traffic stop, which was a police operation in response to an investigation by the task force.

M-box 30s, as they are called on the street, often contain the deadly drug fentanyl. Barnes

repor tedly had cocaine too.

Newton, according to a report in the Mankato Free Press, told police that the pills belonged to Barnes and that Black was not involved in selling drugs.

However, Barnes told police she didn’t know about the pills in the car. Barnes later said some of her statements to police were false.

Newton and Bar nes both

face two felony counts for conspiracy to sell pills containing fentanyl. Newton also faces a felony drug possession charge. Barnes will also have to answer to two felony drug possession charges in Nicollet County District Court. Black was charged with a felony for drug possession for pills and a petty misdemeanor for possession of drug paraphernalia.

shy. Then I met more people.”

The board quickly pivoted to discuss the agenda item about budget adjustments for fiscal year 2024 at the district. The first slide they presented was about why there is a deficit. Reasons cited were lower enrollment, discontinuation of COVID funding and inflation/ underfunding over time for general and special education.

An enrollment study was done in District 508, which showed a slump in student numbers. This is a statewide trend. During the three years that state and federal COVID-19 funding was disbursed, the district had expended on the extra services needed at the time. The board also said it has not seen its funding keep pace with the staggering rates of inflation that have impacted the American economy. Also, because special education has traditionally been underfunded, according to the board, for many years at the state and federal level, the district decided to divert money from the general

fund to make up the difference.

All told, the district now faces an approximately $3 million deficit in the budget for fiscal year 2024.

Superintendent Bill Gronseth said pending state legislation could help with that. According to the board’s projections that use Governor Tim Walz’s proposed budget to the legislature as a guide, there may be additional funds but also some additional mandates. The end of the legislative session is slated for May 22, so the board will know more specifics likely by then from a majority Democrat legislature in St. Paul. The projections still leave the district in a deficit of half the amount, taking it down to about $1.5 million.

“Whether there’s an appropriation for those mandates will affect our budget in the end too,” Gronseth said.

Gronseth wanted to discuss the reserve fund. As a general rule, the district tries to have 60 days of reserve to continue to be able

to operate the district. The district doesn’t want to use those funds just to kick the can down the road, a phrase Gronseth used to describe how if reserves are used just once to cover the hole in the budget, problems of operations sustainability could present themselves further down the line.

After coordination with various committees and the St. Peter Education Association plus several work sessions at the district, it was unfortunately determined that staff cuts were going to need to be made at the district. Staffing takes up a majority of district funding, around 80 percent in fact. The remaining 20 percent consists of other expenses like fuel, utilities, materials and so forth.

The district will eliminate more than 6 staff positions at the district, which will yield a reduction of $340,000. Transportation costs would be reduced by $105,000 after altering the route plans. Computer software cuts represent another

$12,500 and the restructuring of maintenance positions will trim another $10,000. Adjustments made at the schools themselves were made to the tune of $1.1 million. Also proposed are some added fees and grants to create $10,000 of revenue. This includes a reduction of two high school teachers and other various roles North and South Elementary and the middle school.

All this puts total adjustments of the budget at just over $1.5 million to make up the deficit.

Section reductions at schools and block schedule elimination are part of plans to reduce the deficit.

These are just estimates for now.

The board plans to continue to make adjustments and revisit the issues.

Other items discussed at the board meeting were consideration of approval of second reading of revisions to the policy manual, the Native American Advisory Committee update and facilities update.

School Board, Staff Cuts Continued From Page 1

Snow, Continued From Page 1 South Central Minnesota and Nicollet County were clear in the path of that volume. We will soon

see what records are broken or not broken when new data is released for 2022-2023.

New Ulm Schools New Hire Continued From Front Page date. A motion was made by Matt Ringhofer, seconded by Melissa Sunderman, to approve the superintendent finalist candidates.

Candidates were Sean Koster, Randy Bergquist and Barry Schmidt. The motion was approved, 7-0.

The board also discussed upcoming meetings. Finalist superintendent interviews were held on Monday and Tuesday, March 20 & 21. The next regular school board meeting was held on Thursday, March 23 at 5:00 p.m. in the District Boardroom at 414 South Payne

Street. The ledger will provide further updates on the schools in the New Ulm area.

The new superintendent has been selected this past week by the board. They selected Sean Koster for the role. Koster will officially begin his duties on July 1, 2023.

He was selected as the new superintendent from a candidate pool of 12 people.

Koster is currently the superintendent of Beacon Academy in Minneapolis and will be replacing New Ulm’s current superintendent Jeff Bertrang.

South Central College

igent oversight of significant facilities improvements are just a few of the reasons she has received this award,” said Annette Parker, president of South Central College. “Her many contributions have made a significant impact on SCC’s students, faculty, staff and beyond.”

Traxler has served as vice president of finance and operations for South Central College since 2019, currently overseeing business and auxiliary services, facilities, human resources, marketing and communications and information technology.

Roxy Traxler Recognized by Minnesota State for SCC Work NORTH MANKATO – Roxy Traxler, South Central College vice president of finance and operations, received the Outstanding Service Award from the Minnesota State system of colleges and universities. The award was presented to Traxler on December 7 during the 2022 Minnesota State Finance Conference in St. Paul.

“Roxy’s fiscal and operational leadership throughout the pandemic, continuing enhancements to the college’s budgeting process and dil-

Sweet Haven Tonics Grand Opening Just Announced

Botten of Courtland Made Dean’s List ST. PAUL, Minn. (March 21, 2023) - Carli Botten, a student at Bethel University in St. Paul, has been named to the Dean's List for academic excellence for the fall 2022 semester. She is the daughter of Larry and Ann Botten from Courtland, Minnesota.

The Dean's List honors students who achieve an outstanding scholastic record during a semester with a grade point average of 3.6 or greater.

Bethel University is a leader in Christ-centered higher education, with more than 4,700 students from all 50 states and 10 countries enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, seminary, and adult undergraduate programs. Based in St. Paul, Minnesota, Bethel offers bachelor's and advanced degrees in more than 100 fields through classroom-based and online programs.

For further information on Bethel University, visit www.bethel.edu.

Sweet Haven Tonics is proud to announce the grand opening of our cocktail lounge in New Ulm, MN! We invite you to join us for an unforgettable experience as you enjoy cocktails (or mocktails!), charcuterie, and celebration. Our handcrafted tonics feature natural and fresh ingredients, which are also available for purchase so you can take them home and enjoy

them anytime.

Our new location is the perfect place for relaxing and enjoying the company of friends and family. In addition to our cocktail menu, we offer delicious charcuterie boards to complement your drinks.

We are excited to offer our customers the opportunity to purchase our bottled tonics for use in their own cocktails and mocktails

at home. Our retail section also features a selection of other highquality ingredients and accessories to help elevate your home bar experience. Love the liquor we use? You can take that home too!

We also have a selection of wine and beer for on and off sale. We’ve got you covered!

The grand opening event will take place on March 31 and April

1 from 10am – 10pm at our new location, 116 N Minnesota St. in beautiful, downtown New Ulm. We are thrilled to welcome you to our Sweet Haven. Come be a part of our grand opening celebration and discover your new favorite drink!

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cent of the watershed.

The South Central Community Based Initiative 2023-2024 Purchase of Service Agreement was presented by Health & Human Services to the board.

They want to implement a 2-year contract cycle to match DHS

funding cycles. That would give the county two years to implement the funds instead of using an annual budget. There was also a 1 percent increase in funding for mental health staffing and a $6,000 increase for clubhouse funding and staff in-house ser-

vices. Regional funds were distributed to make up the increase.

The board approved the agreement. The implementation of a collaborative safety model was also discussed with the board.

The model was developed to help victims of child abuse and neglect

fatalities. The implementation includes training for staff. There are no expected tax increases or levy. Federal and state funds cover it. Intensive training for one year will be provided. E-learning will be ongoing. The motion to approve it was passed.

Public Works presented the annual agricultural inspectors report. Public Services presented the Houston Engineering Services Agreement for records modernization. The County Attorney presented a proclamation of March as Women’s

History Month.

The county board also approved travel requests for the 2023 National WIC Association Annual Education and Training Conference and Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) National Conference.

County Board of Commissioners Meeting Continued From Front Page

The Nicollet County Ledger is more than a newspaper. It’s THE place you turn to find out what’s going on in the community, and it’s where you learn about decisions that affect you. It’s the place to catch up with the people you know. It’s a forum for sharing your opinions on issues important to you, and it’s the place to find out what your neighbors think.

Page 6

Nicollet County Ledger

Sunday, March 26, 2023

Highway 14 New Ulm to Nicollet four-lane Expansion Project Open House MnDOT to host construction open house April 4 for the Highway 14 New Ulm to Nicollet four-lane expansion project MnDOT invites the public to attend an in-person open house on Tuesday, April 4 from 6-8 p.m. at the Courtland Community Center (300 Railroad Street) to learn more about the second, and final, year of construction on the 2022-2023 Highway 14 New Ulm to Nicollet four-lane expansion project.

Attendees are welcome to arrive anytime. There will also be a brief presentation at 6:30 p.m. to provide an overview of the construction work that occurred last year, and to learn about what’s planned for construction in 2023.

Staff from MnDOT and the prime contractor, Hoffman Construction, will be available to provide more information about the project and answer questions. Those unable to attend the open house can visit the project website for more information and staff contacts.

MnDOT began reconstructing Highway 14 from New Ulm to

Nicollet last year to improve safety and travel for this important freight and trade corridor. Overall, the project is expanding 12.5 miles of Highway 14 from two lanes to four lanes between New Ulm and Nicollet to complete a continuous four-lane road between New Ulm and Rochester.

Traffic impacts Weather permitting, construction on Highway 14 is expected to resume in mid-April and be completed by mid-October. Traffic will continue to be detoured to Highway 68 and Highway 15 during construction.

Stay connected Those who are unable to attend the open house or prefer to get information online can visit the Highway 14 website for more information, staff contacts, and to view progress on the project.

Information will be shared on the MnDOT | South Central Minnesota Facebook groupand the MnDOT District 7 Twitter account.

For updated road condition information, call 511 or visit 511mn.org.

Benson Recognized as All-Journal Player of the Year in New Ulm Boys Varsity HS Basketball

Four GAC Swimmers Named CSCAA All-America

By Jordan Modjeski Gustavus Adolphus College

SAINT PETER, Minn. — The College Swimming and Diving Coaches Association of America (CSCAA) released its AllAmerica honors Tuesday and four Gustavus swimmers received recognition.

All four Gustie women that competed in the 2023 NCAA Championships earned CSCAA All-America Second Team honors. Ellen Hofstede (Sr., St. Paul) picked up the award in the 200 free relay, 100 free, and 400 free relay. The trio of Marit Isaacson (So., St. Paul), Lucy Peterson (Jr., St. Paul), and Abby Yartz

(Sr., Bemidji) joined Hofstede for their 200 and 400 free relay performances.

The awards were determined by a nationwide vote of CSCAAmember Division III head swimming coaches and head diving coaches. All-Americans are selected based on their finish at the NCAA Championships and

a team’s current membership with the CSCAA. Only studentathletes who competed in their championship finals are eligible for All-America Honors. NCAA relays & individuals must score in the top eight to earn first-team honors while those who finish ninth through sixteenth earn second-team honors.

Public open house April 5 for intersection improvement projects in St. Peter Construction expected to begin early May MnDOT invites the public to attend an in-person open house on Wednesday, April 5 from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. at the St. Peter Community Center (Senior Room), 600 South 5th Street, to learn about the upcoming Highway 169/22/99 intersection improvement projects at the south end of St. Peter and prepare for construction expected to begin in early May. There is no

formal presentation planned, and people are welcome to arrive anytime.

Staff from MnDOT and the contractor will be present at the open house to provide more information about the projects and answer questions.

This summer’s intersection improvement projects in St. Peter will include adding a second turn lane on southbound Highway 169 at the intersection with Highway 22 to create a dual turn lane. A J-Turn will also be constructed at the intersection with Highway 99.

Traffic impacts Weather permitting, construction is expected to begin in early May and be completed by late October. Highway 169 will remain open during construction. Highway 22 south of St. Peter and Highway 99 west of St. Peter will be closed during different stages of construction and traffic detoured. Visit the project website for detour information.

Project benefits and costs Benefits of the project include improved pavement, intersection safety, and traffic flow on the

south side of St. Peter. Mathiowetz Construction was awarded the project with a bid of $8,124,440.87.

Stay connected To learn more about the intersection improvement projects in St. Peter and to sign up for email and text message updates visit https:// www.dot.state.mn.us/d7/projects/ hwy169-22-99/index.html.

Information will be shared on the MnDOT | South Central Minnesota Facebook group and the MnDOT District 7 Twitter account.

For updated road condition information, call 511 or visit 511mn.org.

New Ulm, MN--- The New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation is pleased to offer scholarships to assist New Ulm youth to pursue further education beyond high school, to include but not limited to trade school, junior college, certificate programs and universities.

Eight $500 scholarships will be

awarded this year. This scholarship is designed for high school graduates to provide financial assistance as they pursue skills training or degree curriculum, with an emphasis on business, hospitality, or trades.

The applicant must be eligible to graduate from a New Ulm area high school. Fully complet-

ed applications will be accepted until the deadline April 28, 2023.

Awarded scholarships must be used during the academic year in which they are awarded and will be sent directly to the school on behalf of the recipient. The scholarship may be used for tuition, books, required equipment and supplies. Any unused

funds will be returned to the New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation.

Applications are available online at newulm.com, or at the Chamber of Commerce office at 1 N. Minnesota St. Contact the Chamber with any questions: chamber@newulm.com, 507233-4300.

MnDOT to Hold Open House in Saint Peter

The New Ulm Journal has named its All-Journal Boys Basketball Player of the Year. Junior forward Colton Benson made the Journal’s spotlight for his shooting ability.

They interviewed his head coach for the New Ulm High School boys basketball team about his 116 3-pointers this season, which was 42.6 percent from the 3.

Benson also averaged 28.6 points per game, per the Journal stats referenced by coach Matthew Dennis. Benson was selected unanimously for the 2022-23 AllJournal Boys Basketball Player of the Year award feat, which is voted on by the Journal’s sports coverage staffers.

His head coach, coach Matthew Dennis, said Benson was consistent throughout the season, with his lowest scoring being 18 points, already an impressive number.

Benson also broke past 1000-career points going into senior year with more than 1,400 points. That

makes Benson 16th on the City of New Ulm High School career scoring list, the Journal reported.

With 35 more points, Benson will become New Ulm High School’s All-Time boys scoring leader.

In a game against Mankato Loyola, Benson sank nine 3-pointers consecutively for more than a 40-point game. He broke the single-game scoring record of 40 set by Scott Hawkins after scoring 41. He told the Journal what those experiences were like.

“Honestly getting those accomplishments were nice but also being able to celebrate those with my teammates and coaches who helped me get there was a great experience all around,” he said.

Benson started on the varsity squad as a freshman. He was six foot two inches tall. He is now six foot six inches. Benson also racked up 8.1 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game. He will play AAU basketball in April.

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Sunday, March 26, 2023

Nicollet County Ledger

Page 7

s d r n g

e e y

Continued on page

The Nicollet County Ledger is more than a newspaper. It’s THE place you turn to find out what’s going on in the community, and it’s where you learn about decisions that affect you. It’s the place to catch up with the people you know. It’s a forum for sharing your opinions on issues important to you, and it’s the place to find out what your neighbors think.

Page 8

Nicollet County Ledger

Sunday, March 26, 2023

Gusties at the State Capitol in St. Paul Meet Senator Nick Frentz Gustavus Adolphus College News

A large contingent of Gustavus students trekked to St. Paul on March 14 to help convince state legislators to keep making Minnesota colleges more affordable. The annual Day at the Capitol event—a return to a format that hadn’t happened since before the pandemic—saw 46 Gustie undergraduates fan out across the complex to advocate for the Minnesota State Grant, discuss other pressing issues with their elected representatives, and preview potential career paths.

The Minnesota Private College Council (MPCC) organized the event, which invited students from Gustavus and other member schools to share their experiences with the State Grant, which helps students from low- and middle-income families pay for eligible colleges in Minnesota.

More than one-third of Gustavus students receive the Grant, and lawmakers are currently debating how much to allocate toward it.

The MPCC tried, whenever possible, to have students meet with their hometown elected officials and provided students with

guidelines and data—in addition to their personal stories—that show how beneficial the program is. The MPCC’s goal is to get lawmakers to approve $60.3 million in annual funding, along with a one-time grant of $8.3 million from the state’s $17 billion budget surplus, which would lower eligible students’ share of higher ed costs from 50% to 42% while qualifying more than 3,800 additional students for the grants.

The Gustavus group was by far the largest among the participating schools. The College also hosted a gathering at the end of the day for Gustavus students to pick the brains of more than 15 Gustie alumni from a variety of professions who chatted with the students about career goals and options.

Earlier in the day, State Rep. Jeff Brand (DFL-18A, which includes Saint Peter) spent nearly an hour with about a dozen of the students, learning how they’ve benefitted from the State Grant.

“This program is so important to all of us, because even though the Gustavus price tag might be high, all of the grants and scholarships like these really make it affordable,” said Gabby Lavan

’23.

State Sen. Nick Frentz meets with students between votes.

Chloe Keller ’24, who’s from Wisconsin, pointed out the ways the State Grant indirectly benefits students like her. “Even though I’m not eligible for it as an outof-state student, Gustavus being able to use State Grant funds for in-state students frees up other grants for students like me,” she said. “And students who graduate from college in Minnesota are more likely to stay, which helps the state economy in the long run.” Rep. Brand pledged his support for the bill (HR 1912), which also added as an author Rep. Kristin Bahner ’95 (DFL37B)—one of two Gustie alums in the state house along with Rep. Samantha Vang ’16 (DFL-38B)— after Bahner met with President Bergman earlier in the day.

Brand invited the students in his meeting to ask him about anything, and the Gusties obliged. Abby Joy Neptun ’24 asked for his support on the proposed amendment that would codify equal rights for women in the Minnesota constitution. (Bahner is a co-author of the House version of the proposal, which is a state-based revival of the ERA movement from the

1970s that sought to establish these rights nationwide.) “This would enable women to have equal pay in their jobs and the ability to be seen as equal under the law within the constitution itself,” Neptun said.

“So, I would just ask for your support in that,” to which Brand replied, “You’ve got it; you don’t even have to twist my arm for that one.”

The students discussed an array of issues with Brand, including making technical and two-year colleges more affordable; the climate crisis as it pertains to Minnesota’s energy needs and environmental assets, and to man-made chemicals like what was spilled in the recent East Palestine, Ohio train derailment; transportation and workforce developments; and the banning of books and outlawing of gender-affirming medical care that’s happening in other states.

Between this meeting with Rep. Brand and another with State Senator Nick Frentz (DFL18), the Gusties debriefed with all the Day at the Capitol students, to recap the meetings with MPCC officials and determine where more lobbying on the State Grant might be needed. Later in the afternoon, Gustavus students

capped off the productive day by doing round robin-style sessions with College alumni who talked about their work in professions such as education, public policy, law, human rights advocacy, and

others. This is often the most valued and memorable part of the Day at the Capitol event, and the entire experience confirmed, once again, the adage that Gusties show up—and shine.

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