April 21, 2024 | South Central News & Media
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Local Dancing Like the Stars Show Crowns Winners
Top 3 overall winners, left to right: Pierce, Lien and Bates couples. There was a full house at the event. Photo credit: Jim Jordahl Photography. Mike & Shannon Lien, vention and mental health, held on choreographer to learn a dance rou- through conversations, leading up ments and churches to view the Hutchinson, were the Grand Saturday, April 13th at the Glencoe tine for this friendly competition. to the event. Once again, it was a virtual livestream. Champions and took home the City Center. The Show featured Since January, the STAR couples sold-out Show with 600 people in Scott & Patti Bates, Green Isle, prestigious large Mirrorball trophy 12 couples from Brown, Carver, began serving as ambassadors for attendance and 400+ unique logins received 1st runner up and Zach & at 2B CONTINUED’s 4th annual McLeod, Nicollet, Renville, Sibley, 2B CONTINUED, fundraising for for the free livestream. There were Amber Pierce, Hector, were the 2nd Dancing Like The Stars Show, the and Wright counties. Each couple the organization and raising aware- also 16 official “Watch Parties’’ held runner up winners of the overall annual gala to benefit suicide pre- worked with a professional dance ness about the nonprofit’s mission, at area bar & restaurant establish- competition. Winners in each of the
four categories of the competition: Pre-event fundraising campaign: 1st place- Pierce couple ($47,100); 2nd place- Lien couple ($45,095); 3rd place- Bates couple ($33,716). Favorite Costume: 1st place- Troy
Continued on page 5
Activity Planning, FD Wishlist and Traffic Light Requests Discussed at Nicollet City Council Council Continues Business From Last Meeting on Fire Department Public Safety Aid NICOLLET — The Nicollet City Council approved activities and street closings at their most recent council session in Nicollet this month. Cruising on Pine and 99 car and bike roll-in will take place May 9 through September 12. On June 20,
Nicollet will close Pine Street for a band performance and event from 5 to 8 p.m. Friendship Days are slated for August 1. The American Legion will celebrate 100 years May 18. A barbecue fundraiser will also take place July 27 for Ribs R Rockin,
sponsored by the Nicollet Chamber of Commerce. May 4 is citywide cleanup day in Nicollet. Nicollet Fire Chief Jeremy Sieberg gave the council a list of items for the department the city could potentially purchase with public safety
aid money. The council requested a list at a previous meeting. Sieberg wanted the city council to use money to create a truck fund. If the city had to purchase a truck without grant money, it would cost around $56,000. They also listed a $3,500
gas monitor gate and $2,750 valves for hydrants. Sieberg also requested 100 feet of curb be painted red or yellow on 6th Street near the water tower. Firefighters need access to get water from the tower during a fire and cars could potentially block
access to firefighters. Last month, the council discussed a proposal for flashing lights for pedestrian crossing at Trinity Lutheran School. That discussion continued at this meeting. The school
Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (PTK) will recognize Annette Parker, President, South Central College (MN), along with 18 other college administrators with the Shirley B.
Gordon Award of Distinction during PTK Catalyst 2024, the Society’s annual convention in Orlando, Fl, April 4-6, 2024. To be eligible for this award, col-
lege presidents and CEOs must have served in their role for at least five years. Recipients are nominated by students on their campus and are only eligible to receive the award
once over the course of their career. President Parker has shown support of student success initiatives leading to stronger pathways to completion, transfer, and employ-
ment. They have taken an active interest in supporting high-achieving students and developing student leaders on campus.
By Robert Lawson Publisher info@nicolletcountyledger.com
2:30 to 5 p.m. Graphic Communications students from South Central College (SCC) collaborated with local artists. DJ YuWish was spinning music from his DJ and PA rig setup while visitors toured each table and talked with individual creators.
Continued on page 5
Annette Parker to Receive Shirley B. Gordon Award of Distinction Continued on page 6
South Central College Creative Exchange Art Show Held April 18
Annette Parker
NORTH MANKATO – Student vendors showcased their creative portfolios and sold wares during the Second Annual SCC Creative Exchange held on Thursday from
Residents in the Saint Peter School District passed a referendum recently that would modernize and improve the middle school
in Saint Peter. The superintendent school would cost around $11 milsaid there were 911 yes votes ver- lion and would involve renovating sus 656 no votes. The plan to make Continued on page 5 Creative Exchange at South Central College. Photo by Robert Lawson. See more on page 6. the improvement to the middle
Continued on page 6
Saint Peter School District Voters Pass Referendum for Improvements
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Local and State News Updates from Rep. Jeff Brand
1915 — Sunkist Oranges Bemidji Daily Pioneer
Vintage Photo ! "# $ %& '()* + $+ ( ,-' # $" ." / %$" + #
Focus on Ag
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Little Change in Farm Custom Rates for 2024 By Kent Thiesse
Farm management analyst kentthiesse@gmail.com
The USDA “Prospective Plantings Report” that was released on March 28th projected a 4.9 percent decrease in 2024 U.S. corn acreage compared to a year ago, along with a 3.5 percent increase in 2024 soybean acreage from a year earlier. The USDA planting intentions numbers came in lower than the grain trade expected for corn and similar than trade estimates for soybeans. The USDA “Quarterly Grain Stocks Report” was also released on March 28, which lists the estimated U.S. grain inventory as of March 1, 2024, for both “on-farm” and commercial grain storage. The USDA estimates for U.S. corn inventories came in
below the average stocks estimates of the grain traders, while soybean inventories slightly exceeded industry expectations. The USDA prospective planting acreage is based on survey data collected from about 72,000 crop producers in early March. Total U.S. crop acreage was listed at 313.3 million acres, which was down 6.3 million acres or 2 percent from 2023. Most of that decline was due to low commodity prices and the extended drought conditions in the southern Plains States. The USDA estimates for intended 2024 U.S. corn and soybean acreage was viewed as rather “bullish” for “new crop” corn futures prices, meaning higher price expectations, and was viewed as mainly “neutral” for soybean futures
See FOCUS ON AG, page 5
A couple weeks ago, the two largest freight rail companies operating in Minnesota, BNSF and CPKC, informed the state of Minnesotas they won’t pay a railway safety assessment, which was signed into law in 2023 to address deteriorating railway safety. Since 2020, Minnesota has seen a 72 percent increase in derailments, showing a dire need for safety improvements, according to Minnesota State Rep. Jeff Brand (DFL - Saint Peter). “The legislation I proposed this session would help address this by limiting train length, implementing wayside detectors, and more,” Brand said. “We’ve all been there – stuck at a railroad crossing waiting for a two or three mile long train. But the consequences of these ri-
diculously long trains don’t stop at traffic congestion – Lots of trains regularly transport dangerous substances that could contaminate our environment in the event of an accident, so these bills will also help reduce the risk of environmental harm.” Brand sponsored and supported the Transportation Policy Bill in the House. “That’s not all we’re doing for railway safety,” Brand said. The Minnesota House passed the 2024 Transportation Policy Bill. Included in the package is legislation Brand authored to expedite railroad safety procedures in the event of an incident involving the discharge of oil or other hazardous substances. Currently, upon discovery of an incident, crews are
required to notify the Fire Chief before contacting emergency services. This bill changes the requirement and allows contact to be made through the local 911 call center, shortening the window between the incident and response. “In the face of an emergency, the first call should be for help,” Brand said. “By making this reporting adjustment, we’ll save precious moments, potentially stopping a disaster from getting worse.” Brand also mentioned grants for wildlife habitat projects in a recent newsletter to constituents. The Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council (LSOHC) is accepting applications for grants through the Outdoor Heritage Fund. Approximately $150 million will be available for both metro and
statewide grants to aid Minnesota habitat restoration, protection and enhancement. Since the Outdoor Heritage Fund’s creation in 2008, over 1.4 million acres of Minnesota forests, prairies and wetlands have been restored, protected and/or enhanced. Proposal requirements and terms of funding are outlined in the Call for Funding Request. To view details or learn more, visit: www. lsohc.mn.gov. For answers to specific questions, contact LSOHC Staff at www.lsohc.mn.gov/staff. Requests are due to the LSOHC Friday, May 24, 2024. The funds for approved programs signed into law during the 2025 legislative session will be available Monday, July 1, 2025.
North Mankato continues to move toward removing restrictions on natural lawns that include native plants. The majority of the city council now seems more inclined to remove the limits that currently exist in the city. In 2021, they passed
a managed natural yard ordinance that lets people have a maximum of 30 percent of the non-pervious part of their yards converted to a managed planting area with setbacks from property lines. Then the state passed a law requiring cities
to allow residents across Minnesota to have natural native landscapes on their properties. Cities generally have more restrictive laws on these matters than states do, according to the city’s attorney. City officials and the mayor believe the cur-
rent policies may be too restrictive in North Mankato. Concerns around maintaining the yards was still a topic of conversation among the city council though. Ordinances would likely not allow for noxious weeds and long traditional yard grass.
Three of the top 50 producing craft brewing companies are in Minnesota, according to the Brewers Association. The organization released its annual production figures for the
U.S. craft brewing industry and named August Schell Brewing Company in New Ulm number 24 in total production rankings. Summit Brewing in St. Paul ranked number 37 and Surly
Brewing Company in Minneapolis ranked number 43. Schell’s made 29th rank in 2022, so they move up five spots. The other two didn’t fare quite as well this year, Summit falling 11
spots since 2022 and Surly falling by one spot from the same time frame. Craft breweries in the U.S. peaked in 2023 and openings have decreased two years in a row.
North Mankato Considers Removing Natural Lawn Restrictions in City Schells Named 24th Top Beer Brewer City of New Ulm: PUBLIC NOTICE The City of New Ulm will be hosting a Comprehensive Plan Project Steering Committee meeting on the 2044 City of New Ulm Comprehensive Plan to be held on Thursday, April 25, 2024 in the City Hall Council Chambers, 100 North Broadway, New Ulm MN 56073 beginning at 4:30 p.m. A quorum of the Planning Commission
is expected to be in attendance. No official action will be conducted by the Planning Commission at the meeting. Members of the public are encouraged to participate in the Comprehensive Plan process and are welcome to attend any meeting on the Plan. If you would like more
information or have questions regarding the 2044 Comprehensive Plan, please go to h t t p s : / / w w w. n e w u l m m n . gov/551/2022-Comprehensive-Plan or contact us directly using the contact information below.
Office of the Community Development Director City of New Ulm 100 North Broadway New Ulm, MN 56073 Phone: 507-359-8245 David Schnobrich, Community Development Director davids@ newulmmn.gov John Knisley, Planner johnk@ newulmmn.gov
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Gustavus Adolphus College President Rebecca M. Bergman Announces Retirement
The Gustavus Board of Trustees and campus community will launch the search for the College’s 18th president this spring in preparation for a presidential transition in summer 2025 SAINT PETER, Minnesota (April 16, 2024) — Gustavus Adolphus College President Rebecca M. Bergman announced today that she plans to retire in summer 2025 after leading the liberal arts college in Saint Peter, Minnesota, for 11 years. “The opportunity to serve the Gustavus community has been the highest honor of my professional career,” Bergman said in a message to students, faculty, and staff announcing that the 202425 academic year will be her last as President. “From the moment I stepped on this campus, I have been inspired by the steadfast devotion to our mission to prepare students for fulfilling lives of leadership and service in society.” “President Bergman was hired because of her tremendous capacity to build—everything from trusting relationships and new facilities to financial resources and plans for the future,” Board of Trustees Chair Marcia Page ‘82 said. “She has delivered on those promises and done it as a true
servant-leader who is deeply committed to providing Gustavus students with a well-rounded experience and outstanding education.” Bergman, who became the first woman to serve as the College’s president in July 2014 after 26 years as an engineer and senior executive at Medtronic, has led Gustavus during a tumultuous and transformational era in higher education. Her relationship with the College began when her oldest son became a student in 2003. She served on the Gustavus Board of Trustees from 2007-2014, which prepared her to hit the ground running from her non-traditional path to college leadership. Highlights of her presidency include: • The successful completion of Campaign Gustavus and Show The World, two comprehensive campaigns that generated over $400 million in documented philanthropic support for the College’s mission-central work. • Developing and executing Gustavus Acts, the College’s 20162026 strategic plan that focuses on
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three goals: diversify and expand the Gustavus community; deliver a distinctive and integrated liberal arts education; and achieve financial, institutional, and environmental sustainability. • Partnering with the Gustavus faculty to drive academic innovation by developing comprehensive changes to the College’s academic curriculum that will be implemented in 2024-25, including a new academic calendar, adjustments to graduation requirements, and the introduction of a required Signature Experience that connects academic coursework with real-world applications; and creating the College’s first master’s degree program (Athletic Training), which officially begins in summer 2024. • More than doubling the College’s endowment from $135 million in July 2014 to $300 million and counting as of March 2024. • Leading three major building projects: the $70 million expansion and renovation of the Nobel Hall of Science, including the new
Rob & Judy Gardner Laboratory Theatre and The STEAMery Cafe; the $30 million, 72,000 sq. ft. expansion of Lund Center, the College’s wellness and athletics facility; and the $8 million complete renovation of A.H. Anderson Hall and the creation of the Åke and Kristina Bonnier Multifaith Center. • Guiding Gustavus through the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted every area of College operations, including a transition to online teaching and learning; changes to residential life policies and timelines; on-campus testing, quarantine, and isolation protocols; and forging strong partnerships with public health officials. • Elevating the College’s work to build a culture of equity, inclusion, and belonging for all; and creating multiple President’s Councils focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion; Environmental Sustainability; and Indigenous Relations. President Bergman is also one of the most philanthropically generous presidents in American
higher education. She and her husband, Dr. Thomas Bergman, have given Gustavus over $7.4 million in lifetime gifts and commitments in support of scholarships, capital projects, student-faculty research, annual operations, and other areas of need. Known for her commitment to building and celebrating community, Bergman is a regular at campus lectures, art exhibitions, theatre and dance performances, and athletic competitions. She often sits in the front row for music concerts and has stayed through the last note of O Come, All Ye Faithful at every Christmas in Christ Chapel worship service since becoming president— except when attending the Nobel Prize ceremony in Stockholm, Sweden on behalf of the College. Since 2017, Bergman has written a weekly email reflection that is sent to students, faculty, and staff on Monday mornings throughout the academic year. “Our community remains committed to the liberal arts tradition and to continuing to be innovative
and integrated in our approach to education,” Bergman said. “Gustavus is a 24/7 laboratory for learning, and we will continue to evolve to match the aspirations of our students so they are equipped to act on the great challenges of our time.” As Bergman continues to lead Gustavus initiatives and manage operations over the next 14 months, the Board of Trustees will conduct a search for the College’s 18th president. Gustavus will be supported in the process by AGB Search and consultants Loren Anderson and Shannon McCambridge. More information about the upcoming search will be announced in the coming weeks. “President Bergman has given our community many gifts,” Page said. “The Board of Trustees and the entire Gustavus community are grateful to President Bergman for her continued service to the College and the culture of excellence she has built that will equip Gustavus for ever-greater success in the future.”
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DFL leadership says ‘no’ to housing bill that would revoke city zoning controls Housing Crisis Continues By Madison McVan Minnesota Reformer
It’s the “season of disappointment” for Democratic-Farmer-Labor lawmakers, House Speaker Melissa Hortman said Thursday, as she and other party leaders decide which bills will come to the floor for debate, and which will be lost — at least until next year. Hortman and Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy both said Thursday they do not support passing a bill this session that would revoke zoning controls from local governments — a
proposal meant to increase housing supply, reduce prices and curtail exclusionary zoning practices that have historically been used to keep low-income families and people of color out of wealthier neighborhoods. “The (bill) to change zoning from being a locally-determined issue to a state level policy decision is a very significant policy change,” Hortman said. “It’s happening in a couple of states — Washington state, Montana… Minnesota is generally not on the leading edge of states doing radically different policy approaches. We want to see how
something works — will it actually increase the supply of affordable housing or will it just allow developers to build more high value homes in certain high value areas?” A Pew report released in January found that similar policies in Minneapolis — particularly those that encouraged the development of new apartment complexes — moderated housing prices in the city. But representatives of rural cities have expressed concern that the proposed legislation is a “one size fits all” approach that doesn’t adequately account for differ-
ences between large and small cities. Hortman pointed out last session’s historic investment in affordable housing and said those investments need time to take effect. Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy said the proposals could come up again in future years. “Solving our state’s housing crisis has been a top priority for this Legislature, and we are exploring zoning as an important component of expanding access to housing,” Murphy said in a statement. The “missing middle” bill (HF4009/
SF3964), named for the types of housing it would legalize statewide like duplexes and small homes, contains many provisions that would limit cities’ ability to restrict development. For example, cities could not impose square footage requirements on homes or impose height and setback restrictions on proposed apartment complexes. The bill has bipartisan support, but was aggressively opposed by cities, whose elected officials do not want to cede control over local planning. Lobbyists and local government leaders who testified against the bill also argue
that the bill — which would make it easier for developers to build apartments in all areas of the state — would strain local infrastructure like water and sewer lines. Sen. Nicole Mitchell, DFL-Woodbury, said Thursday that she’s “hopeful” the accessory dwelling unit component of the bill will be incorporated into other legislation later this session, in part because it appeals to individuals’ property rights.
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Law, Crime, Courts, Fire and Emergency Services News ASK A TROOPER By Sgt. Troy Christianson Minnesota State Patrol
Question: I know it has been extremely dry but with the anticipation of “April showers” can you talk about hydroplaning? Answer: At speeds of 35 mph or less, most tires will “wipe” water off the road surface to keep tires in contact with the road. At higher speeds, water can collect under tires and lift them off the surface of the road — this is called “hydroplaning.” When your tires hydroplane, they lose all contact with the road. If this occurs, you will be unable to brake, accelerate, or change direction. If your tires begin to hydroplane, take your foot off the gas pedal. Hydroplaning is less likely to occur at normal highway speeds if your vehicle is equipped with good tires
that have deep treads, which will allow water to escape. But hydroplaning can occur at any speed if the depth of the water on the road is greater than the depth of the tire treads. In heavy rain, standard cars may begin to hydroplane at 35 mph. To prevent hydroplaning, keep your tires in good condition and reduce speed when driving on wet roads. You can avoid a ticket — and a crash — if you simply buckle up, drive at safe speeds, pay attention and of course, 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 Trp. Troy Christianson – Minnesota State Patrol at 2900 48th Street NW, Rochester MN 55901-5848. or reach him at, Troy.Christianson@state. mn.us.
Traffic sign replacement begins April 29 in South Central and Southwest Minnesota MANKATO, Minn. – The replacement of traffic signs which are at the end of their service lives will begin on April 29 along several highways in southcentral and southwest Minnesota, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Traffic signs located on various highways in the following counties will be replaced: Blue Earth, Brown, Nobles and Rock. MnDOT replaces traffic signs on a 15-year cycle to ensure signs are legible for motorists during the day and at night. Over time, traffic signs experience wear and tear, and frequently lose reflectivity in low-light conditions long before indications of their age are obvious in normal conditions. Sign replacement on Highway 22 in Mankato will occur during evening hours to take advantage of reduced traffic impacts for the safety of the workers, as well as the traveling public. There will be little impact to
traffic on other state highways during the sign replacement, however, MnDOT reminds motorists to drive with caution and watch for crews working near the roadway. The project is expected to be completed by mid-August, weather permitting. NTTK, Inc. was awarded the project with a bid of $849,906.64. Important work zone safety reminders: Slow down when approaching every work zone Never enter a roadway that has been blocked with barriers or cones Stay alert; watch for workers and slow-moving equipment Obey posted speed limits. Fine for a violation in a work zone is $300 Minimize distractions behind the wheel Be patient; expect delays, especially during peak travel times For real-time traffic and travel information in Minnesota, visit www.511mn.org or get the free smartphone app at Google Play or the App Store.
Child Abuse Charges for Waseca Man Accused of Abusing Toddler in Nicollet County Child’s Caretakers’ Story Wasn’t Consistent, Medical Examination Found That Injuries Were Likely the Cause of Child Abuse, Warrant Issued for Suspect’s Arrest SAINT PETER — Charges were filed in Nicollet County against a Waseca man who stands accused of physically abusing a toddler in his custody in January. The man, Jerimyah Nevan Worcester, 23, was charged with felony third-degree assault of a child younger than 4 years old, felony assault causing substantial bodily harm, two felonies for malicious punishment of a child and felony child neglect Fri-
day in Nicollet County District Court. Authorities investigated Worcester in January after staff at River’s Edge Hospital reported a 17-month-old child coming in with bruises on his face and head. The toddler was transported to the Children’s Minnesota hospital for the severe injuries. The criminal complaint stated that a woman who said she cared for the child with Worcester said the toddler received the injuries
after falling asleep on a bottle in his crib but her story was inconsistent and so were the injuries. Worcester said the toddler also fell down a flight of carpeted stairs. That same woman said she left the child with Worcester for ten minutes but surveillance footage showed investigators she was likely gone for around five hours. Worcester also claimed they played too rough with the toddler and gave multiple explanations for the injuries, accord-
ing to the criminal complaint. Medical records reviewed by police showed signs of abdominal trauma, a subdural hemorrhage and face/head bruises. The medical examination concluded the injuries were not likely caused by lying on a bottle, which wouldn’t account for all of the injuries. A physician said the injuries were consistent with child abuse. Police issued a warrant for Worcester’s arrest after not being able to reach him.
A St. Paul man received a prison sentence for his role in a North Mankato drug case from last June in North Mankato. He was sentenced to prison Tuesday for aiding and abetting drug sales. Duane Lee Johnson Meadows, 30, was convicted in Nicollet County
District Court on the felony charge Tuesday. Twenty-four other charges were dismissed. Meadows was one of four people in a vehicle that was suspected to be used for drug sales in North Mankato June 15, according to a criminal complaint in Nicollet County.
Police pursued the driver, Marcus Anthony Bryant, of St. Paul, who crashed the vehicle and fled on foot along with Meadows. Police found Meadows behind an air conditioner unit at a nearby residence and Bryant was arrested the next day. The vehicle allegedly had
pills containing fentanyl inside it at the time. Meadows was sentenced to four years and five months in prison with credit for 307 days served. Bryant was sentenced to nine years in prison in October after a conviction for a firstdegree drug sales charge.
while being directed by flaggers. On four-lane highways, there will be lane closures. Highways scheduled for work include: Highway 13, south of Waseca Highway 19, east and west of Henderson Highway 19, east of New Prague Highway 91, south of Ellsworth Highway 93, west of Le Sueur
Highway 169, near Le Sueur All States Pavement Recycling & Stabilization, Inc. was awarded the project with a bid of $848,171.41. Important work zone safety reminders: Slow down when approaching every work zone Never enter a roadway that has been blocked with barriers or cones Stay alert; watch for workers and slow-moving equipment
Obey posted speed limits. Fine for a violation in a work zone is $300 Minimize distractions behind the wheel Be patient; expect delays, especially during peak travel times For real-time traffic and travel information in Minnesota, visit www.511mn.org or get the free smartphone app at Google Play or the App Store.
St. Paul Man Sentenced in Drug Case in Nicollet County
Rumble Strip Installation on South Central MN Highways April 22-23 Watch for Crews MnDOT
MANKATO, Minn. – Motorists will encounter minor traffic delays April 22-23, weather permitting, on several state highways in South Central Minnesota as crews install centerline and shoulder rumble strips, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation. The delays are expected to be minimal through the work zone. On two-lane roads, motorists will take turns using the single open lane
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Focus on Ag Continued Local Dancing Like the Stars Show From Page 2 prices on the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT). After the USDA planting intentions report was released on March 28, December 2024 corn futures closed up 16 cents per bushel and November soybean futures were basically steady. Typically, these late March USDA Reports are very critical to farm operators and grain traders due to their impact on grain market prices in the Spring and early Summer months. During these months, many farm operators try to sell remaining grain inventories from the previous growing season, as well as look for opportunities to forward price a portion of the anticipated crop for the current year. In a majority of years, corn and soybean prices usually reach their “peak-price” during the period from April until June, which is why these reports are so important. Highlights from the March 28th USDA Planting Intentions Report: Corn — The planting intentions report indicated that just over 90 million acres of corn are expected to be planted in the U.S. in 2024, which is a decrease of 4.6 million acres or 4.9 percent from the 2023 corn acreage of 94.6 million acres. The 2024 U.S. corn acreage would still be above the 2022 corn acreage of 88.2 million acres. The highest corn acreage recorded in recent decades in the March USDA survey was 97.3 million acres in 2012. The current USDA corn acreage estimate was about 1.7 million acres below the average grain trade estimate. Based on the report, 2024 planted corn acreage is likely to decrease in all of the major corn production States. The largest expected decrease in expected corn acreage is 700,000 acres (8.1%) in Minnesota. Other large decreases in corn acreage include Indiana at 350,000 acres (6.4%), Missouri at 350,000 acres ((9.1%), Iowa at 300,000 acres (2.3%), Illinois at 300,000 (2.7%), South Dakota at 300,000 (94.8%), Ohio at 300,000 ((8.3%), and North Dakota at 250,000 (6.2%). Nebraska’s corn acreage was only expected to decrease by 100,000 acres (1%). Soybeans — Based on the estimates in the March 28th Planting Intentions Report, U.S. soybean acreage in 2024 is projected at 86.5 million acres, which represents an increase of 2.9 million acres from a year ago. The 2024 U.S. soybean acreage estimate compares to 83.6 million acres in 2023, 87.4 million acres in 2022, 87.2 million acres in 2021, and the record 90.2 million acres in 2017. The projected USDA soybean acreage came in very close to the average grain trade estimates for 2024. The highest increase in estimated 2024 soybean acreage was in North Dakota, with an expected increase of 700,000 acres, followed by Missouri with an increase of 400,000 acres. Smaller increases in 2024 soybean acreage are likely to occur in Minnesota, South Dakota, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Nebraska, and Wisconsin. Kansas was the only major producing State to show a decline in anticipated soybean acreage for 2024. Wheat — Due to the continued potential impacts on worldwide wheat production that has resulted from the Russian war in Ukraine, there was considerable interest in the U.S. planting intentions for Spring wheat in 2024. The intended total U.S. wheat acreage for 2024 is estimated at 47.5 million acres, which is down 4 percent from 49.6 million acres in 2023 but still exceeds 45.8 million acres in 2022. Spring wheat acreage for 2024 was estimated at 11.3 million acres, which is very similar to last year. Spring wheat acres in 2024 are expected to increase in Minnesota and South Dakota, decrease slightly in North Dakota, and stay the same in Montana. Highlights from the March 28th USDA Grain Stocks Report: Corn — The total U.S. corn stocks
on March 1, 2024, were listed at over 8.35 billion bushels, which is an increase of 13 percent from a year earlier. The March 1st USDA corn stocks estimates were slightly below the average grain trade estimate. The report indicated that a significant number of farmers are still hanging on to their 2023 corn inventory, with nearly 61 percent of the total corn stocks being held in on-farm storage. One negative in the USDA grain stocks report was that implied corn usage from December, 2023 through February, 2024 was down about 12 percent compared to a year earlier. Many farmers are hoping that favorable corn stocks numbers, together with the expected reductions in 2024 U.S. corn acreage, will spur a rally in the cash corn market in the coming weeks. This would allow farmers to liquidate some of the large 2023 corn inventory that is still in on-farm storage. Soybeans — Soybean stocks on March 1, 2024, were listed at just under 1.85 billion bushels, which is up 99 percent from a year ago but is still slightly below the total soybean stocks on March 1, 2022. About half of the total soybean stocks were held in on-farm storage. The total U.S. soybean usage from December, 2023 through February, 2024 was estimated at 1.16 billion bushels, which was down about 13 percent from a year earlier. The March 1 soybean stocks estimate came in slightly above the average estimate of grain traders. The higher levels of grain stocks, together with the expected increase in 2024 soybean acreage may limit any substantial increases in the CBOT soybean futures prices in the coming weeks. Wheat — Total wheat stocks on March 1, 2024, were listed at just over 1.09 billion bushels, which is up 16 percent from March 1, 2023. Of that total, approximately 25 percent of the wheat stocks were held in on-farm storage. The implied U.S. wheat usage in the past quarter was 334 million bushels, which was down about 10 percent from the same quarter a year ago. Corn and soybean market prices declined considerably in the past 12 months due to increasing supplies and reduced demand compared to previous years. Nearby CBOT corn futures closed at $4.42 per bushel on March 28 following the release of the USDA reports, which compares to $6.60 per bushel on Mach 31, 2023 following the release of the reports a year ago. New crop December corn futures on March 28 closed at $4.76 per bushel, compared to $5.66 per bushel a year ago on March 31. 2023. Nearby CBOT soybean futures closed at $11.91 per bushel following the USDA report on March 28, compared to $15.05 per bushel on March 31, 2023 and new crop November futures closed at $11.86 per bushel on March 28, compared to $13.20 per bushel a year ago. The March 31st USDA report was based on producer surveys of planting intentions, as of March 1st; however, there is potential for these planting intentions to be adjusted slightly when final planting takes place. The lower cost of production for soybeans has likely encouraged the potential for more soybean acres in 2024; however, the potential for early spring planting in many areas of the Midwest could encourage an increase above the intended corn acreage. Any enhancement in corn prices in the coming weeks could also be favorable for increases in corn acreage. In the past twenty years, final corn acreage has increased above the prospective March 1 planting estimate in twelve years and decreased in eight years. Note — For additional information contact Kent Thiesse, Farm Management Analyst, Green Solutions Phone — (507) 381-7960; E-mail — kentthiesse@gmail.com
Crowns Winners
Dancing From Page One & Kelly Higgins, Glencoe; 2nd place- Cullen & Mandy Kennedy, St. Peter; 3rd place- Lien couple. Judges’ Choice: 1st place- Lien couple; 2nd place- Bates couple, 3rd place- Dan & Marja Sowers, New Ulm. People’s Choice (“VOTES” [donations] $1=1 vote, during the event): 1st place- Ryan & Shannon MulQueeny, Hutchinson ($8,460); 2nd place- Pierce couple ($5,377); 3rd place- Tyler & Heather Kratzke, Gaylord ($4,670). Overall, the competition raised $330,335 through the generosity of 250+ businesses and organizations, and countless individual donors. Tammy Diehn, the organization’s Founder and Executive Director
stated, “We are incredibly grateful for the generosity and humbly appreciative of the overall support for our mission. The many conversations about mental health initiated by the dancers during the fundraising process are priceless! In the end, the real winners of this event are the recipients of our education and outreach offerings.” The proceeds are used to support work in local communities and schools. 2B CONTINUED offers a variety of evidence-based training in communities, on demand, including Question Persuade Refer (QPR, the mental health version of CPR), Mental Health First Aid, and SafeTALK for Ag. The organization hosts an annual Continuing
Education for Professionals and engages in community outreach activities such as distributing yard signs with encouraging messages during mental health awareness month in May, participates in parades and county fairs, and has a monthly Suicide Loss Support group. Additionally, the proceeds will help support their largest program - Teen Mental Health First Aid, a 6-lesson school curriculum taught by their certified instructors at schools, free of charge. Currently 2B CONTINUED teaches the program in 16 schools in their 8-county service area and has a waiting list of several other schools wanting to onboard the evidence-based training program this fall.
Teuby Continued (dba 2B CONTINUED) is a local 501c3 nonprofit organization with a to increase awareness of suicide prevention, mental health, and wellness through advocacy, education, and outreach serving the counties of Brown, Carver, McLeod, Meeker, Nicollet, Renville, Sibley, and Wright. Please note: 2B CONTINUED does not offer professional services. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text the National Suicide Crisis & Lifeline at 988. For information about other available resources and support, visit 2B CONTINUED’s virtual assistant, HOPE, at www.2Bsupported.org. With Hope, you are never alone. Help is available!
St. Peter Referundum Continued From Page One
the science labs and stem space at the school as well as refurbishing of classrooms, hallways, stairs and other areas of the school.
Nicollet Council Continued From Page One
requested a flashing light at the crosswalk until autumn, according to the city coun- light for the crosswalk at 3rd Street and engineering plan for both sets of lights. on 6th Street and Highway 111. Requests cil. The lights would be about $25,000. Highway 111. The council will continue to look for for funding will probably not be ready The mayor also suggested a flashing Bolton and Menk will provide an grant funding.
Volunteer Water Monitors Needed to Help State Track Water Quality As spring arrives in Minnesota, it’s time for the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) to kick off its popular program that relies on Minnesotans to monitor our 12,000+ lakes and 92,000+ miles of streams: the Volunteer Water Monitoring Program. The MPCA is currently recruiting volunteers to measure water clarity in numerous lakes and streams – including several high-priority
sites across the Twin Cities Metro Area – and then report back to the agency. This is the perfect opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in protecting our state’s natural resources! Over 50 years of environmental stewardship When the University of Minnesota launched the Volunteer Water Monitoring Program in 1973, it would go on to become the second oldest,
and still active, volunteer water monitoring program in the nation. Transferred to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency in 1978, it has since become a roaring success, empowering Minnesotans from all corners of the state to support the health of our beloved waters. How does it work? Volunteers conduct a simple water clarity test in a body of water twice a month from April-September. We
provide all the equipment and training, so no experience is needed. The MPCA uses the data to help determine whether lakes and streams are meeting water quality standards, which are designed to protect aquatic life and recreational activities (like fishing and swimming). In some cases, the information gathered by volunteers is the only monitoring done on a particular lake or stream!
romance, part mystery and part courtroom drama. The novel is based on actual events. The novel is told from the perspective of Emilie Ferguson, halfScottish and half-Dakota, who experiences the Dakota war firsthand. Torn between her loyalty to both societies, Emilie finds herself searching for her Scottish father, a bigger-than-life explorer and guide, even as her Dakota mother is imprisoned after hundreds of settlers are killed by Dakota who resent the seizing of their homeland. As half-white, Emilie finds she, too, is the target of resentment of the Dakota uprising, even though her tribe hid white settlers. She finds help from two friends, Eustis, an African-American man of extraordinary musical and intellectual abilities, and Anders, a Norwegian immigrant set out to find a better life in America. Emilie is also taken in by the Hoffmans, a Jewish family living in full view of Fort Snelling and the stockade where the Dakota people,
including her mother, are held. Sandvig’s exhaustive historical research is quite evident. When he mentions a place, he sends you to the map looking for it – the true mark of accurate historical fiction. Sandvig skillfully weaves Emilie’s feelings for her parents with her quest to learn the truth of what happened to her father. As a result, Emilie evolves from a young girl in constant conflict with her mother and doting on her father to a woman who loves them both, and finally realizes how much they shaped her as a woman. Sandvig’s depiction of the Dakota relocation is absolutely heartbreaking as even those Native people who protected white settlers were swept up in the fervor for revenge. The Girl in the Thistles is also an objective portrayal of the real causes of the Dakota War, and how there were no clear heroes or villains. Emilie finds allies among both races in her quest for the truth. Sandvig’s novel will appeal to
fans of the late Frederick Manfred’s Scarlet Plume and other historical fiction of the settlement era. It’s an intriguing novel, and impossible to put down. Michael Tidemann writes from Estherville, Iowa. His Facebook page is Author Michael Tidemann.
The Girl in the Thistles Recounts 1862 Dakota War By Michael Tidemann
While America was embroiled in the midst of a great civil war, yet another war was taking place in Minnesota. Aberdeen, S.D., native S.K. Sandvig writes of the 1862 US-Dakota War in The Girl in the Thistles, a remarkable multigenre novel that’s part history, part
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s d r n g
Sunday, April 21, 2024
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Nicollet County Ledger
Sunday, April 21, 2024
Annette Parker to Receive Shirley B. Gordon Award of Distinction
“This college president has made it a priority to support student success both inside and outside the classroom,” says Phi Theta Kappa President and CEO Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner. “This
award is special because it comes directly from the students, and it is evidence of the gratitude they feel for the support for them and students like them.” The Shirley B. Gordon Award
Photos submitted by Phi Theta Kappa.
of Distinction is Phi Theta Kappa’s most prestigious award for community college presidents and is named in honor of the late Dr. Shirley B. Gordon, Phi Theta Kappa’s longest-serving Board of
Directors Chair and a founder and long-time president of Highline Community College in Washington. About Phi Theta Kappa Phi Theta Kappa is the pre-
mier honor society recognizing the academic achievement of students at associate degreegranting colleges and helping them to grow as scholars and leaders. The Society is made up
of more than 3.8 million members and nearly 1,300 chapters in 11 countries, with approximately 240,000 active members in the nation’s colleges. Learn more at ptk.org.
ees.” The primary goal of the annual event is to foster community engagement and support students in raising funds for new equipment for the SCC Graphic Communications
program. For more information about Graphic Communications at SCC, including the program’s new graphic arts and photography certificates, visit www.southcentral. edu/graphics.
SCC GRAPHIC ARTS STUDENTS & VENDORS HOLD CREATIVE EXCHANGE EVENT
Creative Exchange at SCC. Photos by Robert Lawson.
For Andre Wiese, it’s finals week as a multimedia student at SCC and he was at the event taking photos and helping out with the event. The unique art show was held in the Conference Center Wing of
SCC’s North Mankato Campus, located at 1920 Lee Boulevard. The event featured 20 SCC students alongside 15 local vendors, creating and selling art, jewelry, handmade soaps, woodwork, print-
Creative Exchange at SCC. Photos by Robert Lawson. making, and bakery goods. art community,” explained Helen “We used to host an art show Bednar, Graphic Communications exclusively featuring SCC stu- Instructor at SCC. “This shift has dents for many years. However, enriched the experience for our last year, we opted for a new for- students, community, business mat that involves the entire local partners, and the show’s attend-
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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