Nicollet County Ledger October 15, 2023

October 15, 2023 | South Central News & Media

Courtland Baseball Page 8

Focus on Ag Page 2

Classifieds Page 4

Former St. Peter Mayor’s Islam Comments Draws Controversy Within Community

By Robert Lawson Publisher info@nicolletcountyledger.com

Saint Peter resident Bill Nelson and a woman who also lives in Saint Peter approached the Saint Peter City Council during visitor discussion on Monday, October 9 to address comments the former Saint Peter mayor made in reference to a bid by the Islamic Center to purchase the old fire station. Nelson is

the co-president of the Saint Peter Good Neighbor Diversity Council.

Several other members of the group were present at the meeting. Nelson introduced the group and its goal to the council: “Our mission is to provide crosscultural communication, leadership and advice to enable Saint Peter to be a caring, supportive and welcoming community for people of all racial, religious and other diverse backgrounds,” Nelson explained.

Their Council Coordinating

Group membership, according to Nelson, is comprised of about 30 citizens, many of whom were at the council meeting, who are of varying ethnic, religious and age groups that include Somalis and other Africans, Caucasians, Indigenous, Asians, Hispanics, African Americans, Christians, Jews, Muslims and other religious groups. They’ve sponsored cultural events and offered community education programs.

“We come before the city council

Continued on page 5

County Attorneys (L-R) Michelle Zender-Fischer, Nicollet County; and Chuck Hanson, Brown County.

Counties Transition to New Pot Laws

By Robert Lawson Publisher info@nicolletcountyledger.com

As counties prepare to transition to the legalization of recreational cannabis use, there remains some unanswered questions for law enforcement and county leaders as the state tries to come up with an economic development plan for the weed business. This story is part of an investigation dubbed “Minnesota

Home Grown: From Prohibition to Recreation” and interviews with local leaders and others will be aired on New Ulm Cable Access Television (NUCAT). The Ledger has also applied for additional funding from a PBS grant called the Local Journalism Initiative. In the run up to the November 2024 election, nearly half of all U.S. states have legalized cannabis in some way. We are focused on the new legislation and its impact on Nicollet County and nearby Brown County.

So far, the Ledger has interviewed two sources at the county level.

Those interviews included Brown County Attorney Chuck Hanson and Nicollet County Attorney Michelle Zender-Fischer. Both interviews were supposed to include each county’s respective elected sheriff to get a law enforcement perspective. Former Saint Peter Mayor Peter Rheaume told the City Council there may need to be increased need for Those interviews had to be resched- police presence at the old fire hall if it were to become the home of the Islamic Center. uled due to personal matters of both Brown County Sheriff Jason Seidl and Nicollet County Sheriff David Lange.

Lafayette Memorial Park Dedication On August 28, The Lafayette Legion Post #300, City of Lafayette and Lafayette Band invited the public and their families to share in a special dedication ceremony of the Lafayette Memorial Park. The dedication was sponsored by the Lafayette

Legion #300.

The ceremony took place on Sunday, September 17, 2023 at 4:00PM in the park located at 720 Main Avenue, Lafayette, MN 56054. The ceremony featured Lafayette Band performances, Lafayette Legion Color Guard,

a handful of guest speakers, the presentation of the pavers, and a display of past military uniforms in the community center.

Following the ceremony, there was a complementary at will donation meal served to guests at the event.

Members of the Saint Peter Good Neighbor Diversity Council approached the Saint Peter City Council to show support for the Muslim community after the former mayor implied their operation of a local Islamic Center in the old fire hall could be a public safety threat due to their religious beliefs. The Islamic Center was one of three groups who submitted a bid to the City of Saint Peter to purchase the property.

Saint Peter City Council Discusses Job Description, Safety Contract, Fun Run Help and Some Business License Applications

By Robert Lawson Publisher info@nicolletcountyledger.com

The Saint Peter City Council met on Monday, October 9 to discuss a construction maintenance worker description, the MMUA safety contract, Halloween Fun Run assistance County Board of Commissioners were presented with this trophy for Continuous Improvement on March and business license applications.

Saint Peter resident Bill Nelson and 14.

a woman who also lives in Saint Peter approached the council during visitor discussion to address comments the former Saint Peter mayor made in reference to a bid placed by the Islamic Center to purchase the old fire station.

The woman was a Saint Peter high school graduate and daughter of the other co-president of the Saint Peter Good Neighbor Diversity

Mayor Fred Froehlich called the Special Meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. on September 27, 2023 in the Council Chambers. In addition to Mayor Froehlich, Council Members Mary Wels, Matt Anthony, and Kevin Ostermann were present at

The Truth and Taxation Hearing was set for Monday, December 4, 2023 at 6:00 pm with a regular city council meeting to follow.

With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 6:49 p.m. (Photo by Tony Webster).

Council. Nelson is the other copresident. They described comments made by the former mayor as misinformed and disparaging and are concerned with growing antimuslim sentiment in the community (see “Former St. Peter Mayor’s Islam Comments Draws Controversy” story from front page). They will be

Continued on page 5

Nicollet City Council News Updates the meeting. Councilmember Phil Radel was absent. Nicollet city staff present at the meeting included Vanessa Drill.

The purpose of the special meeting was to set the preliminary levy, preliminary budget for 2024, and

set the Truth in Taxation Hearing date for December 2023.

Resolution # 09-27-23 – Adopting the Proposed 2024 Levy of $610,524.00 was approved on a motion made by Anthony and seconded by Ostermann. It was

approved unanimously by the city council.

Resolution #09-27-23A – Adopting the Proposed 2024 Budget was approved on a motion

by Wels and seconded by Anthony.

It was approved unanimously.

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Nicollet County Ledger

Ad From the Past

Sunday, October 15, 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, October 15, 2023

Vintage Photo

April 6 is Holy Week

Vintage Photo Identification Ostrom Studio of Winthrop took many family and wedding photos in the Sibley County area in the early 1900s. If you know the people pictured here, please call the Sibley County Historical Society at 507-2483434 on a Tuesday, email schs1@frontiernet.net, or mail information to 700 Main Street, Henderson, MN 56044. Please use this code:

N-625

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

Centuries-old

penitential

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

devotion,

Stations

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.

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-

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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• 4.00% Interest Rate = $51,511 per year P & I payment • 5.00% Interest Rate = $57,158 per year P & I payment • 6.00% Interest Rate = $63,078 per year P & I payment • 7.00% Interest Rate = $69,251 per year P & I payment • 8.00% Interest Rate = $75,656 per year P & I payment

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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

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!

of

the

Cross

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).

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.

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.

STATEWIDE

Sunday, October 15, 2023

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

Metro

Page 4

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Sunday, October 15, 2023

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.

Roxy Traxler Recognized by Minnesota State for SCC Work South Central College

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-

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.

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.

Trying not to be seen?

Continued From Front Page of the Ledger

Saint Peter City Council Meeting Agenda Items holding an event to foster awareness in the near future, Nelson said. Both read lengthy statements regarding the former mayor’s comments made last month on September 11.

There was no unfinished business to discuss at the council meeting, so the council moved on to new business items.

Public Works Director Pete Moulton and City Administrator Todd Prafke introduced the coun-

cil to the construction maintenance worker job description.There has been some debate about the title of the position, Prafke said. It is the city’s policy to review job descriptions when a position is made available, he further explained. The position is not new and exists in the Parks Department. The position was previously called Construction Maintenance Technician.

“It’s a broad term for a broad

position is what it is,” Moulton said.

The council previously discussed the title and its meaning and have thrown around different versions.

“Our goal is to find someone great, like we had before, to do this work,” Prafke said.

The resolution to adopt the job description was approved.

The council also discussed a safety program agreement with the Minnesota Municipal Utilities

Association (MMUA). Moulton addressed the mayor and city council with the details.

“We have been partners with them for about 20 years now on our safety program,” Moulton said. “It’s really evident by our experience modification that we addressed last year with the city council.”

The goal of the program is to ensure city staff safety.

“We still have a modification

this evening to present two very brief testimonies in response to the false and derogatory statements that were made to this council, ironically on September 11, concerning the faith of our Islamic friends,” Nelson said. “First, we want it to be known that we stand with our Muslim brothers and sisters in this community. They are peace-loving, service oriented people, with whom we have worked side by side for the common good of all our citizens.”

Nelson said he also stands with the council and believes they desire the same thing: a caring community. Nelson thanked the council.

“Second, we want to announce this evening that the Good Neighbor Diversity Council will soon be sponsoring conducting educational programs, open to all our local residents, to help people understand the true nature of the Islamic faith as practiced by our Muslim community here in Saint Peter,” Nelson said. “We want all our citizens to not hold fears because of false rumors or statements, but to find special joys in getting to know and building friendships with people of other backgrounds.”

The woman who spoke next was the other co-president’s daughter.

She graduated high school from Saint Peter High School and is now pursuing an accounting degree from the University of Minnesota in the Twin Cities.

“I watched as the Muslim community thrived and continued to

grow here in Saint Peter,” she explained. “I also watched how the space here at the current Islamic Center began to outgrow us.”

She described the growth of the Islamic faith in the area and explained how a bid was put forth to purchase the old fire station in Saint Peter to secure a larger space in the community to practice the Islamic faith.

“This bid sparked a heated debate within our community, particularly when the former mayor spoke publicly before the city council questioning the Islamic Center’s motivations,” she said. “Specifically, the former mayor suggested that the area around the Islamic Center required increased police presence and implied that religious conflicts brewed within the Muslim community and questioned whether the Quran promotes violence. There is no evidence to justify the need for increased policing of the Muslim community here in Saint Peter. The Islamic Center has been a peaceful place of worship, focused on fostering community, understanding and spiritual growth. Unfounded concerns about violence or unrest legitimize negative stereotypes and sow seeds of distrust between community members. As human beings, we may not share the same beliefs but we can engage respectfully and keep personal beliefs and factual information separate. These inflammatory statements, though unfounded, influence public dis-

course surrounding the Islamic Center’s bid.”

She said it is important for local Muslims to scrutinize rhetoric like that of the former mayor and promote responsible leadership that prioritizes accurate information.

She also said influential leaders have the responsibility and ethical duty to demonstrate cultural awareness and foster inclusivity and cooperation. She also said statements need to be carefully constructed to consider cultural sensitivity and accuracy when made in public. She said the city has an opportunity to move forward with “courageous empathy” and there is concern that the former mayor’s rhetoric that day is becoming a growing sentiment.

Current mayor Shanon Nowell has expressed her support for the Islamic Center and Muslim community in Saint Peter after former Mayor Peter Rheaume (1990-92, city council 1984-90) made comments suggesting that there would need to be increased public safety personnel at the center due to the nature of the Muslim religion.

“And I would like any of them who are watching this on YouTube, who stuck to the end of this long meeting, to know that I unequivocally and unapologetically value them, accept them, love them and want them here as a part of our community,” Nowell said about the Islamic community in Saint Peter.

“They are welcome here, I repre-

sent them even though I look different, I worship differently; they are my neighbors. I value them.”

At the September 11 council meeting, Rheaume first approached the council complaining that the Islamic Center would decrease parking availability and tax revenue, but the discussion became contentious after he made the following remarks, claiming the center poses a public safety threat.

“I don’t want to get into a comparison of the Quran to the Bible,” Rheaume said. “Have we reached out to any clergy experts, maybe out of the metro area, to find out, is it really in the Quran that they have come here to kill infidels? And it just so happens that we Americans have been labeled ‘the infidels’?”

Rheaume suggested that he is not alone in his ignorance, though he stopped short of implicating any other individuals who share his views.

“These are real questions by real people in our community,” he said.

Other agenda items at the September 11 meeting included MNDOT Truck Station (development agreement, purchase, street vacations, plats, and annexation); Homecoming Parade - City Assistance Request; Business Licenses; Job Descriptions (Executive Assistant., Community Service Officer, Electric Foreman); Snow Removal/Ice Control Policy; Hwy 22 Corridor Study; and Land Purchase.

Islamic Comments From Former St. Peter Mayor

New Saint Peter Police Officers Sworn In at Council

Sorry, can’t help you there. The Nicollet County Ledger is all about being seen — or, more accurately, making sure you are seen. Every week, we put pictures in the paper. Pictures of your kids. Pictures of people you know. And people get to see them. Subscribe to the Ledger.

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, October 15, 2023

Youth Scholarships Available for Students taking Lessons or Classes in Visual Art, Music, Dance, and More The Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council is offering $300 Arts Scholarships for Youth in grades 7–12, and $200 for students in grades 3-6, who live in the 9-county area.

Students can apply for funds to take lessons, classes, or training with an independent instructor or an arts organization. Artistic areas include dance, literature, media arts, music, theater,

visual art, folk and traditional art. All applications for both age groups are due November 1, 2023. There is only one deadline per year. Students must live in the nine-county region that Prairie Lakes serves including: Blue Earth, Brown, Faribault, Le Sueur, Martin, Nicollet, Sibley, Waseca and Watonwan Counties.

Students in grades 7-12 must be

participating with an instructor, an organization or arts discipline for at least 2 years to be eligible. Students in grades 3-6 must be participating for at least one year to be eligible. Both age groups require an online letter of recommendation from an instructor as part of their application. Students may not use this scholarship to participate in a school or organization

band or choir trip, or other arts trips.

Lessons can be conducted in-person or online via Skype, Zoom, or other live platforms.

Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council has an online grant process.

Go to our website www.plrac.org and click on the applicant Login button.

Follow the instructions to register as an artist for the Youth Scholarship

and complete the application.

In FY 2023 a total of 121 students were awarded Youth Scholarships, for a total of $30,600 from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. This is part of the Legacy funding from the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment that Prairie Lakes receives from the State Legislature.

We also provide grants to Non-profit

Arts Organizations, Community Groups and Schools, and awarded over $450,000 last year.

Questions? Contact Pam at pam@ plrac.org!

Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council 105 22nd Avenue NE, Suite A., Waseca, MN 56093 1-800-298-1254 * www.plrac.org

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Your newspaper has agreed to participate in the Minnesota Displa these ads in the main news section of your newspaper (not the per). At times, advertisers may request a specific section. Howev each newspaper. Ads may need to be decreased/increased slight Please do not bill for these ads. If you have questions, please call M